Shanghai Shenhua deny Di Maria rumours

Shanghai Shenhua have dismissed reports they are trying to sign Angel Di Maria, stating they are false and from "immoral" media outlets.

Reports have emerged in France and Spain that the Argentine could be the next high-profile player to move from Europe to the Chinese Super League, with the Shanghai side credited with an interest in him.

L'Equipe have reported that the former Real Madrid and Manchester United attacker wants to leave Paris Saint-Germain for a big pay day in the near future, with agent Jorge Mendes said to have already held talks over a possible move.

The 28-year-old remains a key player for PSG, though, and an official of Shenhua has moved to put an end to rumours, insisting they are completely false.

“We all understand fictitious rumours are being relentlessly spread when the transfer window approaches," a representative of the club told Chinese media. 

"Some immoral foreign media have increasingly stepped out of line, knowing we have neither the time nor the energy to respond to each fake report.

“The Chinese Super League clubs do have deep pockets, but we will only buy players that suit our needs. It is impossible for us to do something on a whim and mess around.”

Di Maria has made 21 appearances in all competitions for the Ligue 1 champions this season and is contracted to the club until June 2019.

Shanghai Shenhua are close to signing one Argentine hero, however, with coach Gus Poyet confirming the club only need to work out "small details" before they complete the signing of Carlos Tevez from Boca Juniors.