Wolverhampton Wanderers have signed 21-year-old chinese midfielder Xu Bin, bolstering their squad with a promising talent who recently captained his nation’s U-23 team to a historic second-place finish in the AFC U-23 Asian Cup.
A Rising Star Heads to the Premier League
the young defensive midfielder joins wolves as a free agent and will initially gain experience on loan within the English football system.
- Xu bin,a key figure in China’s U-23 Asian Cup run,has signed with Wolverhampton Wanderers.
- the midfielder will be loaned to an English club to continue his advancement.
- His arrival is being hailed as a potential breakthrough moment for Chinese soccer.
- Wolverhampton views the signing as a long-term investment in a player with significant potential.
The wolverhampton club announced the signing on January 30 (Korean time), stating that Xu Bin, formerly of Qingdao West Coast in the Chinese Super League, will immediately join a team on loan for the remainder of the season. This move marks a significant step in the young player’s career, offering him the possibility to test himself in a highly competitive European league.
Xu Bin expressed his excitement about the move, stating, “I am incredibly excited to join Wolverhampton Wanderers. It’s a dream come true to play in the Premier League.” he added, “Playing in Europe is a very effective way to grow as a player. I want to broaden my horizons and see for myself how much my game can improve.” He acknowledged the language barrier but affirmed his readiness to overcome it, saying, “I have already decided to take on the challenge, so I am preparing for all the difficulties that lie ahead, including the language problem.”
According to ‘China Daily’, Xu Bin completed the transfer process immediately after China’s U-23 team lost 0-4 to Japan in the 2026 U-23 Asian Cup final. The report also noted that a loan to a Championship club is the most likely scenario for the remainder of the season, due to work permit regulations.
Chinese media outlets are celebrating the move as a significant moment for the nation’s footballing ambitions. ‘Sina Sports’ reported that Xu Bin’s journey “is breathing new hope into Chinese soccer,” while Titan, a sports-focused media outlet, highlighted how success in youth international competitions can attract European scouts.
Xu Bin signs his contract with Wolverhampton Wanderers.
The transfer represents more than just an individual move; it’s a symbolic step forward for Chinese football, which has seen limited depiction in Europe’s top five leagues in recent years. While challenges remain, including navigating the UK’s work permit system and adapting to the pace and physicality of English football, Wolverhampton’s long-term development outlook offers a promising path for the young midfielder.
Xu Bin during a training session.
From Xi Jinping’s Soccer Boom to the Premier League
Xu Bin’s journey began at Guangzhou Henda Soccer School, coinciding with a period of increased investment in Chinese football spearheaded by President Xi Jinping. He debuted in the Chinese Super League with Guangzhou FC in 2022, and consistently featured for Qingdao West Coast since joining them in 2025, playing 30 league games and providing 3 assists last season. His consistent performances and leadership qualities have now earned him a chance to shine on the European stage.
