The 29-year-old claimed the club has treated him unfairly and his Australian representatives will lodge a grievance with FIFA and the Chinese FA over the alleged matter.

Santalab also blamed the medical department at the Blades for not treating injuries properly.

Nicknamed “The Cannon” for his penchant for spectacular goals, Santalab has had three seasons in China scoring 20 goals since linking up with the Blades in 2009.

“I am really upset that because of the management of the club and their unprofessional attitude to players, all players and not just myself, I will not be back in 2012,” he told au.fourfourtwo.com

“There is no way I can go back there when they owe me so much money."

“Apart from the money, the poor medical assistance they provide to players has cost me many games that I should have fully recovered from with injuries.

“No one likes missing out due to injury. But the club has to have the best possible medical staff to ensure that all players are as available for as many games as possible.”

Santalab arrived in China after a two year spell with Sydney FC highlighted by some top class goals – including one away to Adelaide United deemed one of the best goals of the season.

We understand there has been interest from A-League, Chinese and Asian clubs in Wollongong born Santalab.

At a time when Chinese football is in the headlines due to the high profile signing of Chelsea star Nicolas Anelka, Santalab said this was not the right image to portray.

“I have had three fantastic seasons in China and there is a strong desire for me to go back for the new season," said the former Sydney United and Parramatta Power player.

“I have seen first-hand the quality of the league is improving and with the arrival of Nicolas Anelka and other high profile players, this League will become even stronger."

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