The 28-year-old All Whites front man decided after five days in China, it would be near impossible for wife Nikki and his two children to settle.

According to the Gold Coast Bulletin, his decision to walk sparked debates as to whether his contract belonged to United or Shandong.

A Football Federation Australia source reportedly said the International Transfer Clearance for Smeltz was never dispatched, leaving him free to re-join United.

He is expected to return to the Coast today after signing a two-year deal with Shandong and is free to line up for United against the Brisbane Roar on August 8 unless he finds an alternative club.

Although money exchanged hands, it was not enough to complete the transfer process.

Gold Coast owner Clive Palmer indicated a return to his club for the two-time Golden Boot winner.

"There has been an issue for Shane there and he's coming home," he said.

"We are hopeful of retaining him for the coming season and we'll have to wait and see what transpires.

"As things stand we don't believe we have transferred him and it doesn't look like we will be either."

Palmer is confident the club will also keep captain Jason Culina and indicated the club was also looking for a high-profile midfielder.

"We want Jason to stay and he will stay," he said. "There is no doubt about that and I can assure you he is happy to remain here."

He added: "We are looking at the possibility of a high profile midfielder.

"There are a lot of names we are considering and I want to give our coach Miron Bleiberg every chance to have a winning team this season."