CSL not shy about opening vault

Chinese league has richest spenders in world soccer

The cash splash triggered by Chinese soccer clubs in their rush to sign elite foreign talent is making global headlines - but more needs to be done to rejuvenate the game's domestic profile.

While international superstars like Barcelona's Lionel Messi and Real Madrid's Cristiano Ronaldo prepare to clash in the knockoff stage of Europe's Champions League, the Chinese Super League season will be competing for a share of the spotlight when the new campaign kicks off on Friday with Guangzhou R&F hosting Hebei China Fortune.