Fosun deal could kick-start new era for soccer industry

Chinese soccer aficionados will have a better chance to see world-famous soccer players in the near future as Foyo Culture and Entertainment Co Ltd - a subsidiary of investment conglomerate Fosun International Ltd - has joined hands with the highly celebrated Portuguese footballers agency Gestifute.

Under the strategic partnership deal agreed on Monday, the two companies will roll out services including agent services for soccer players, operation of games, and agent services of soccer players' image rights. Soccer players will take part in a number of gatherings with their Chinese fans and also participate in a number of philanthropic activities.

Meanwhile, leading overseas players are likely to be introduced to China and vice versa. Soccer training organizations will be jointly established by Foyo and Gestifute in the hope of sending promising Chinese players to overseas clubs.