RIO DE JANEIRO, July 16 (Xinhua) -- Brazil's media have underlined the country's growing influence on Chinese football after Robinho ended weeks of speculation by joining Guangzhou Evergrande on Thursday.
The signing, confirmed on Guangzhou's official website, means there are now 28 Brazilians playing in the Chinese Super League, just one short of the record set in 2012.
"In the last few years the number of Brazilians playing in China has risen and is now surpassing other traditional leagues," the Uol news service said.
Evergrande currently have six Brazilians on their books and are coached by the Selecao's 2002 World Cup-winning boss Luiz Felipe Scolari.
Robinho joins compatriots Elkeson, Ricardo Goulart, Alan, Rene Junior and Paulinho in Scolari's squad.
"With the transfer window now open, it's possible that the number of Brazilians playing in China will rise even more," Uol added.
Robinho, who signed as a free agent after leaving Santos last month, will be tied to his new club until the end of the year with the option of an extension.
Media in Brazil have reported he will earn a monthly salary of around a million euros.
Guangzhou are said to have fended off interest in the 31-year-old from Mexico's Queretaro and an unnamed US Major League Soccer club.
Globoesporte emphasized the role played by Scolari in convincing the former Real Madrid, Manchester City and AC Milan winger to play in China.
"He was recommended by Scolari, who instigated the move," the newspaper said.