GUANGZHOU Evergrande player Zhang Linpeng will join Spanish powerhouse Real Madrid this winter on loan, Sina.com reported yesterday.

    Zhang told Guangzhou-based Yangcheng Evening News that his dream of playing abroad would come true.

    “I know there will be challenges and difficulties while playing soccer aboard, I will do my best wherever I am,” he said.

    Zhang, who former Italy manager Marcello Lippi once described as the best defender in the Chinese Super League after his spell in charge of the club, has 44 caps for the Chinese national team.

    The 26-year-old right-back has been dubbed “Zhangmos” by Chinese fans, who compare him to Real Madrid’s Sergio Ramos.

    Last month, English Premier League champion Chelsea’s potential move to acquire Zhang was put on hold after the two sides failed to reach an agreement ahead of the transfer deadline.

    In a letter to Chelsea’s CEO, which Evergrande board member Liu Yongzhuo posted on his Twitter-style Weibo account, he revealed a number of sticking points including over Zhang’s work permit.

    Liu stressed Guangzhou’s “seriousness” about a deal for the Guangzhou key player, saying they have not received assurances over the Premier League side’s long-term plans for the defender.(SD News)