Seattle Sounders' Obafemi Martins to join Shanghai Shenhua

By James Walker-Roberts

Image: Obafemi Martins is heading to China

Former Newcastle forward Obafemi Martins has become the latest player to move to the Chinese Premier League.

The 31-year-old, who spent three seasons with the Magpies from 2006-2009, has been playing for Seattle Sounders in the MLS since 2013.

However, he has confirmed on Twitter that he is now set to join Ramires, Ezequiel Lavezzi and Jackson Martinez in China.

"For me it's now time for a new challenge," Martins wrote. "After significant reflection, I have decided to join Shanghai Greenland Shenhua FC of the CSL.

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"Something I feel strongly about is challenging myself. When I came to Seattle, it was for the challenge. The challenge of playing in an unknown environment. I can wholeheartedly say that I seized the opportunity in Seattle and gave everything I had for the club."

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Martins scored 40 goals in 72 regular season appearances for the Sounders, finishing second in the league MVP voting in 2014.

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"Thank you Seattle," he added. "Thank you for everything. Thank you for the memories that will last a lifetime. Thank you for the endless love and support, during good times and bad. Thank you to my teammates and coaches for always believing in me."

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