Tim Cahill has revealed that he rejected the chance to reunite with his former Everton boss David Moyes at Real Sociedad.
The Australian international has opted to join Chinese Super League club Shanghai Shenhua after leaving New York Red Bulls on transfer deadline day.
However, the 35-year-old, who spent eight years playing under Moyes at Everton, was offered a late deal from the Scotsman to join his La Liga club.
"I've been on the phone to [Real Sociedad boss] David Moyes, I spoke with [former Arsenal and New York striker] Thierry Henry and also the chairman Bill Kenright at Everton and [Australia coach] Ange [Postecoglou] this morning," Cahill told Fox Sports.
"I've made the decision purely because I've played in the Premier League and did really well and it was a massive compliment to get the phone calls I did last night and to speak to Moyes about possibly going to La Liga.
"I've done the Premier League, I've done America. New York was amazing for me, [but] China is a growing market in football."
Cahill had a three-year spell with the Red Bulls after leaving Everton in 2012.
Danielle Joynson
