In just a few short seasons, the foreign representatives in the Chinese Super League have morphed from ageing stars on their last legs to some of the sport's biggest names. With the transfer window now closed, here is your complete guide to the 2017 CSL foreign class...
GUANGZHOU R&F
Apostolos Giannou – $3 million
The Australian attacker did OK in his first season in China and may have to battle for playing time in 2017.
Renatinho – undisclosed
The versatile Brazilian forward signed a new contract under manager Dragan Stojkovic just before the start of the new campaign after a solid showing in terms of goals and assists in 2016.
Eran Zahavi – $8 million
The Israeli international midfielder arrived in June and quickly showed his worth terms of goals and assists. Not the biggest name but one of the best imports.
Jang Hyun-soo – $3 million
The South Korean provides leadership and experience in the centre of defence or in midfield.
HENAN JIANYE
Borek Dockal – $3 million
The 28-year-old Czech Republic midfielder is a late addition to the squad from Sparta Prague and should add some experience and dynamism to the middle.
Javier Patino – undisclosed
The Spanish-born Philippines international has already had two successful seasons at Henan and there is no reason to suggest the attacker will be any different in 2017.

Christian Bassogog – $7 million
The winger impressed at the Africa Cup of Nations for Cameroon and was soon on his way to China to become Henan's most expensive player.
Eddi Gomes – undisclosed
The towering Bissau-Guinean born Danish centre-back has become a fan favourite at Henan for his committed performances.
Ahmad Al Salih – free
There are past examples of Syrians having success in China and it should be an interesting season for the defender.
TIANJIN TEDA
John Mikel Obi – free
Arrives in China after a decade in Chelsea's midfield. His experience should prove vital this season.

Nemanja Gudelj – $7 million
Expected to line-up with Mikel Obi in Tianjin's midfield, the Serbian international adds to a cosmopolitan squad.
Hwang Seok-ho – $2 million
The versatile South Korean defender arrives in China after five successful seasons in Japan.
Malick Evouna – undisclosed
The Gabon goalscorer arrived in China in the middle of last season and took time to settle. He should be ready for a greater contribution this time around.
Mbaye Diagne – undisclosed
Once signed by Juventus, the tall Senegalese striker scored some vital goals for Tianjin last season.

YANBIAN FUNDE
Yoon Bitgaram – $2 million
The classy South Korean midfielder was one of the most impressive of all the imports last season and worked his way back into the national team.
Bubacarr Trawally – undisclosed
With goals and flair, the Gambian has become a favourite up in the north-east and won his team some vital points.
Nikola Petkovic – free
The Serbian defender struggled at times with some of the attacking talent in China but hung in there to help his promoted team have a good season, finishing ninth in the 16-team league.

Kim Seung-dae – $1.5 million
Another South Korean plying his trade up near the border with North Korea, Kim is a classy forward who can score and bring others into the game.
Richard Guzmics – $500,000
The Hungarian defender adds to the multitude of nationalities on display in China, as well as some height in Yanbian's backline.
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