The owner of Tianjin Quanjian has revealed they have pre-contracts with three foreign stars.
Billionaire Shu Yuhui has been linked to a swoop for Chelsea striker Diego Costa and promised he will sign a “world-class striker".
The CSL club have also been linked to moves for Paris Saint-Germain star Edinson Cavani, Monaco's Radamel Falcao, Dortmund's Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Fiorentina forward Nikola Kalinic.
Shu told Tianjin Daily: “It's safe to say we did make contact with all of those players, some of whom are still in talks with us.
“The only thing I can reveal right now is that we have agreed terms with two or three stars.
“The players have no problem with the deals and their clubs are also willing to let them leave.
"The only issue that remains unresolved is reaching agreements with their respective clubs over the transfer fees.
"The players we buy should satisfy two requirements.
"First, he is suitable to the style of football we play. And second, he has the right attitude.
"However, if some [European] clubs are intent on taking advantage of us, we won't allow ourselves to get ripped off. We won't lose our mind."
However, the club yesterday said in a statement they had not been in contact with Costa.
A statement read: "Regarding the widespread rumour that Chelsea FC's Diego Costa is close to joining Tianjin Quanjian FC, our club want to make clear that at this point, we have not been communicating with Costa regarding the transfer."