South China yesterday raised the stakes in the AFC Cup, as well as the club's profile, by luring former England and Manchester United star Nicky Butt, who will become the biggest name to play in Hong Kong for nearly two decades.
Butt, 35, will join the league champions as they seek to become a force in the regional competition.
Club convener Steven Lo Kit-sing said yesterday the midfielder would arrive on November 29 to officially put pen to paper on the deal, details of which were not disclosed.
'There are some minor details to be sorted, such as his accommodation, but basically he will sign for us until the end of the season,' Lo said. 'I have repeatedly said our target is the Asian Football Confederation Cup, and Butt's arrival proves we are determined to go all the way.
'This is in fact the first step, as I am still in discussions with a number of overseas players, including a South American international who appeared in the World Cup finals in South Africa this summer.
'Also, our club partner [Tottenham Hotspur] are likely to send a player on loan to us. We only have a squad of 24 players and we need more quality players if we are to challenge for the AFC Cup.'