Australian Broadcasting Corporation reported Wednesday night that former Chinese national player Zhang Yuning has signed a one-year deal with A-League side Queensland Roar.

The contract was signed on Monday, the final day of the A-League transfer window.

The 29-year-old scored nine goals in 15 internationals for China before finishing his international career two years ago.

He has also netted 60 times in 160 club games in China.

Roar coach Miron Bleiberg said the 187cm centre forward was strong in the air and added that he expected him to combine well with existing forwards Ante Milicic, Simon Lynch and Reinaldo.

"The guy was a superstar on and off the field in China," he said.

"His club Shanghai is the Manchester United of China. It's the top, top, top club."

However, reports from the Chinese media say negotiations are still underway between the two clubs to iron out the details for either transfer or lease the striker.

(CRI August 2, 2006)