Dalian Yifang terminate World Cup star's contract

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Dalian Yifang have terminated the contract of Jose Fonte, just five months after he joined the club.

The veteran Portugal international has made just nine appearances for the Chinese Super League (CSL) outfit this season, after arriving on a five million pound transfer from West Ham in February.

The 34-year-old had previously expressed his frustration at Dalian Yifang's poor form with the club's hierarchy via a two-page handwritten letter, and has now seen his deal cancelled by mutual consent, leaving him free to consider a move to another club.

Jose Fonte (R) is a pivotal figure in Dalian Yifang's defense. /VCG Photo

A statement on Yifang official weibo read: "Due to a strategic consideration for the second half of the domestic season, Dailian Yifang Football Club and Portugal player Jose Fonte have reached an agreement for the consensual termination of his contract."

As a solid center-back, Fonte proved instrumental in Portugal's World Cup campaign this summer, starting all four of his national team's games, helping Fernando Santos' side advance to the round of 16 behind Spain.

"I would like to say a big thank you to everyone I met and made friendships along the way," Fonte said in an emotional farewell on Instagram.

Screenshot of Fonte's Instagram account.

"Unforgettable experience and I’m blessed to have been treated in the best way by everyone!!! I'm forever grateful to all Dalian fans and to the great country of China."

"I hope I left something good at least I tried my very best!" he added.

Dalian Yifang had been in the relegation zone since the beginning of the season, with only two victories in eleven league games.

The CSL will resume on Wednesday following a two-month hiatus.