China beckons for Aussie Garcia

Garcia, who was spent the last 15 years in England with West Ham United, Leyton Orient, Colchester United and Hull City, is seeking a fresh start after being released by the downsizing Tigers in May.

"A deal is pretty close and I should be able to confirm something in a week or so," Garcia told The World Game.

"We are just negotiating the finer points but it looks like hopefully going ahead.

"While after so long in England it will be tough to leave, I need a fresh challenge and I’m really looking forward to a new chapter in my career.

"I still believe I've got a lot left to offer and feel in the best physical condition I have in a long while."

Garcia is hoping that by joining the likes of Aussie exports Joel Griffiths, Milan Susak, Rostyn Griffiths and Mile Sterjovski in China he can thrust himself back onto the radar of Australia coach Holger Osieck.

"I want to get back playing regular club football again, putting in good performances and hopefully forcing my way back into the national team," the 30-year-old said.

"That's definitely the goal, especially after playing at the 2010 World Cup."

Garcia, who has 14 caps, suffered an injury-marred final season for Hull as it adjusted to life back in the Championship after two seasons in the Premier League.

His decision to opt for China was made easier by the number of Australians already earning a rich living there.

"That definitely played a part. It makes things easier," he said.

"I'm not going into the unknown and I'm looking forward to being part of things there.

"I can't see there being too many problems in the negotiations but in football you never know."