Former Everton and New York Red Bulls star Tim Cahill has confirmed that he has joined Chinese giants Shanghai Shenhua.
Cahill, 35, announced the news just hours after the MLS side said on Monday that the Australian midfielder had left the club by mutual agreement, making him a free agent.
Speaking to Fox Sports News, Australia's all-time leading goal-scorer said: "I'm proud to announce that next move in my career will be in China with Shanghai Shenhua.
"China is a growing market in football. You can see with the recent game that we played against China [the Asian Cup quarterfinal], millions and millions of people watched it.
"I'm at an age that I want to give back to football, as well as still play at a high level.
"I'll make an impact in China, I promise you that. On the pitch."
Congrats to @socceroos Legend @Tim_Cahill on joining Chinese Super League club Shanghai Shenhua. #socceroos pic.twitter.com/6q0Vi0sTOo
- The PFA (@thepfa) February 3, 2015
The Socceroos legend confirmed that he consulted his former coach at Everton David Moyes, ex-Red Bulls teammate Thierry Henry, and Everton chairman Bill Kenwright all before making his decision and said that there had been interest from sides in both La Liga and the Premier League.
"It's exciting to still be in demand and receive the offers I have is special."
Asked on whether any Australian clubs had been in the mix for his signature the Asian Cup winner said that there had been no concrete offers.
"I respect Australian football so much and a lot of speculation has always thrown my name in. I've always asked for a project, grassroots and everything but I never really received an official offer."
In better news for Socceroos fans, Cahill looks set to continue his international career, speaking of his huge respect for Australian boss Ange Postecoglou.
"We've gone on this journey together to help Australian football grow.
"The boss know my plans for the national team and I'm always there for him, on and off the park and I'll always leave that decision to him."