The Ghanaian community in China has welcomed Black Stars captain Asamoah Gyan's move to the Asian country insisting his presence and image will help boost the cordial relationship between Ghanaians and Chinese.
Asamoah Gyan has completed his move from Al Ain to Shanghai SIPG after signing a two-year deal with the Chinese Super League club, the Ghana striker said on Friday.
Gyan, 29, confirmed on his official website that he had signed a contract, which has an option for a renewal, after completing a routine medical.
Terms of the deal were not disclosed but local media have reported he would be earning in excess of the $350,000 per week as he was receiving $250,000 UAE champions Al Ain.
The deal has delighted Gyan's countrymen living in the Asian country insisting his presence will help boost the profile of Ghanaians in China.
"On behalf of Ghanaian Community in China, it is of great joy to welcome you BABY JET to the People Republic of China," a statement from the organisation representing Ghanaians in China said.
"We are delighted that you joined Shanghai SIPC because we believe it will boost the cordial relationship that exists between China and Ghana.
"Even though the community could not meet you at the Pudong Airport but were able to witness the rousing welcome that our compatriots gave you on your arrival.
"We are so excited and we wish to assure you of our utmost support in prayers till you exhaust your stay with the Shanghai SIPC.
Gyan, who sealed the deal with the Shanghai side on Friday, has been invited by the Ghanaians to travel to the business city of Guangzhou where most of his countrymen are based.
"The Community which has its head office in GUANGZHOU also extends our invitation to you to familiarize yourself with the business hub of traders and business entity from Ghana and Africa as a whole, which is Guangzhou City," the statement said
"As of now, the community does not have your contact to express our profound joy but believe this medium will enable us to contact you as we welcome you to our second home, China.
"In Chinese we say HUANYING GUANGLIN. YEN MA WO AKWAABA," the statement added.
A report on Gyan’s website said the club would hold an official unveiling when Shanghai return from Sunday’s league match at Guangzhou R&F.
Gyan was immensely popular during his four-year stint at Al Ain, where he scored 95 goals in 83 matches, but the Emirati team said the offer from the title-chasing Chinese side was too good to refuse.
Gyan’s arrival marks the latest big-money signing in China, where the top clubs have splashed out millions of dollars on high-profile players such as Demba Ba and Paulinho, with Brazilian forward Robinho also expected to join their ranks.
Signed: Ghanaian Community, China Telephone: 13710174014/13422286614 Email: [email protected]