According to Wang Xiaorui of Titan Sports Weekly, Zhejiang have stepped up changes to their attack after suffering three straight defeats across two competitions. Former Henan foreign signing Cardoso has already arrived in Hangzhou, and an official announcement of his transfer is imminent. The match against Shanghai Shenhua could prove to be Guarirapa's farewell appearance.
The club had planned to replace a striker during the break. Guarirapa failed to meet expectations this season, scoring only two goals in the first half of the campaign. His focus on the pitch and link-up play were both seen as clear weaknesses, and he lost his starting place early, prompting the club to decide on a replacement.
Zhejiang initially considered bringing back former player Yago Carrillo. The foreign forward is currently performing efficiently for Ulsan Hyundai, but the K League side were unwilling to let him go, so that move was abandoned. Head coach Ross Aloisi then turned to former Henan centre-forward Cardoso. However, the player has just finished his spell in the Saudi league and is currently in the off-season, so he will need some time to rebuild fitness and adapt tactically before he can play.
After arriving in Hangzhou, Cardoso will wear the No. 27 shirt, the same number once worn by Carrillo. After the Shenhua match, Guarirapa left on his own, and Cardoso's arrival is now effectively a done deal.