The second transfer window for the 2024 Chinese Super League (CSL) and China League One clubs will open on June 17th and close on July 15th. Media personality Chen Hua shared via social media, “There were previous reports that central defender He Guan might leave Shanghai Haigang on loan, and I feel that there is indeed a high probability of this happening.”
The media expert listed the following reasons:
- Firstly, He Guan did not have many opportunities to play for Haigang in the first half of the season – in fact, he didn’t play at all in the 14 league matches. Despite being named on the bench multiple times, his appearances were zero. Players need actual games to maintain their form, so if he can’t get playing time here, it would be better for him to find a team where he can play more matches and stay match-fit.
- Secondly, He Guan has had two previous loan spells to maintain his condition, gaining valuable experience. In the 2022 season, when he had limited opportunities under Li Ke at Haigang, he was loaned to Changchun Yatai, scoring one goal and providing one assist in 15 appearances, earning widespread recognition from长春 fans. In the 2023 season, when he saw little action under Xaver, he was loaned to Wuhan Sanjiaozhen, starting seven CSL matches and featuring in four (three starts) high-level AFC Champions League games. These two loan spells can be considered successful attempts, as the player gained more practical game experience.
- Lastly, with the summer transfer window opening, several clubs, including those from both the CSL and China League One, such as Henan and Wuhan, have expressed interest in loaning He Guan. The final decision on where he goes will depend on the player’s preference and the club’s choice, considering he still has a contract with Haigang, and the club has some say in his loan destination.
Personally, I support He Guan seeking more playing time through a loan move. Haigang’s depth in central defenders is undoubtedly among the strongest in the 16-team CSL: Jiang Guangtai, imported from Evergrande, stands alone in his class domestically; Zhang Linpeng is a seasoned international and captain; Li Hang, despite his average physicality, offers left-footed passing and set-piece expertise; and Wei Yezhen, one of the few talents from the 1997-1998 age group that won the national youth championship, has shown the vigor and passion of the emerging generation, gradually securing a regular starting spot.