Derek Riordan flies to China for transfer talks

Riordan is on the hunt for a new club after leaving Hibs at the end of last season and a decision must be made on Chanba's 'life-changing' interest before the Chinese transfer window closes on Friday. The switch would come as a culture shock to the 28-year-old, who has played all his career so far in Scotland and has previously knocked back the possibility of a transfer to Russia.

Chanba, who have a Serbian manager in 60-year-old former Red Star Belgrade head coach Milorad Kosanovic, have been seeking new recruits in the European market and are willing to push the boat out financially for Riordan.

Riordan's visit to the People's Republic will give him the chance to size up the potentially momentous move but there appears a huge possibility he will pen a deal if the trip goes well. He said: "I'm excited at getting the chance to have a look around the club and the country. I'm 28 now and it's big decision in my life.

"I'm looking forward to possibly trying something different and we'll see how it goes before I decide what I'm going to do."