Champions South China would like to sign South Korea international Seol Ki-hyeon, now playing for English Premier League side Fulham, as they prepare for another assault on the Asian Football Confederation Cup. The Caroliners were eliminated by Kuwait Sports Club in last year's semi-finals and team convenor Steven Lo Kit-sing is eager to strengthen his foreign legion in an effort to win the prestigious regional tournament this season. 'We have made an offer to Seol to sign him on loan and are waiting for his reply. I hope to hear from him in the next couple of days,' said Lo, when watching his side training for today's Canbo Senior Shield semi-final against Sun Hei at Yuen Long Stadium. 'Both the player and his club have no problem with our offer, but Seol is still considering his options, as playing in Hong Kong may affect his chance of making the South Korea team for the World Cup finals in South Africa. 'The standard of the Hong Kong league is a big concern to him as he may be overlooked by the national team coach if he plays here.' Seol, 31, has failed to gain a regular place in the London club's first-team and is on loan at Al-Hilal of Saudi Arabia. South China unveiled new signing Leonardo da Silva yesterday. The 29-year-old Brazilian striker has signed a contract until the end of the season. 'He is quick and strong and give us more striking options up front,' Lo said. Following their elimination from last year's AFC Cup, South China have ended the contracts of two overseas players, Ramon de Freitas and Leandro da Silva. Lo is confident of overcoming Sun Hei to book a place in the Shield final. 'If we can play like we did against Pegasus in our last match, we should have no problem,' he said. Kitchee will meet Pegasus in the other semi-final today.
