LONDON, July 7 -- China midfielder Li Tie will join Sheffield United next week for pre-season training, the newly-promoted English Premier League side said.

The 28-year-old Chinese international, who was released by Everton in May after spending the last three seasons with the London club, has signed on a free transfer on a two-year contract.

The documentation for the work permit is already in place, and Li is now awaiting a visa before make the trip, said the club.

"We are looking forward to him joining in with pre-season training when his visa is in place," manager Neil Warnock told the club's website.

Li has won 80 Chinese caps and has played 34 times in the Premiership for Everton.