Dalian Aerbin owner Zhao Mingyang has revealed that the club are close to completing the signing of Seydou Keita.

The 32-year-old confirmed yesterday afternoon that he had informed Barcelona of his intention to leave the club after four years at the Nou Camp.

Widespread reports have since linked the midfielder with a move to Aerbin, who are said to be offering him a two-year contract.

Mingyang has now confirmed the speculation by claiming that the switch is "nearly confirmed".

"We have talked a whole day and it is nearly confirmed," he told reporters. "We are waiting on Li Ming's final message."

Keita joined Barca in 2008 from Sevilla.