Pato joins China's Tianjin Quanjian

Alexandre Pato celebrates after scoring the second goal for Chelsea against Aston Villa, April 2, 2016.[Photo/Agencies]

RIO DE JANEIRO -- Former Brazil international striker Alexandre Pato has joined Tianjin Quanjian from Villarreal in a deal reportedly worth 18 million euros.

The 27-year-old agreed to personal terms with the Chinese Super League club on Monday after completing a medical in Rome, where the squad is currently in pre-season training.

Pato confirmed the move by posting a photo on Twitter alongside Tianjin Quanjian coach Fabio Cannavaro.

"I'm very happy to be a part of this new family at Tianjin Quanjian," Pato said in the post.

Belgian midfielder Axel Witsel, who joined the Chinese club from Zenit Saint-Petersburg on January 3, was among the first to welcome the former AC Milan prodigy.

"Welcome to Tianjin Quanjian, my friend," Witsel said.

Pato has struggled for consistency at Villarreal, scoring just six times in 24 appearances after his arrival from Corinthians in July.

Tianjin Quanjian already have Brazilian forwards Luis Fabiano and Geuvanio in their squad.

Tianjin Quanjian earned promotion to the Chinese Super League after winning last year's second division title.