China’s continued attempts to become a major player in football received an unexpected turn yesterday when referee Mark Clattenburg left the door open for a possible transfer to the Chinese Super League.

Not content with snapping up the world’s best players for ludicrous sums of money, referees are next on their list and despite quashing rumours that he was leaving the Premier League at the start of the week, Clattenburg could see a future outside of England in the near future.

“China are certainly looking to develop their football, looking at their signings and their recruitment,” Clattenburg said. “If an opportunity came along — I am contracted to the Premier League — but I have to look at my long-term strategy of my career.