Didier Drogba may be heading back to Europe as Shanghai Shenhua's owner Zhu Jun demands more control over the club.
The Chinese Super League team's finances are under threat, putting Drogba's $600,000 weekly salary at risk.
What happened?
Shanghai Shenhua signed Drogba in July, lifting the profile of the Chinese Super League, after Nicolas Anelka joined in December.
The team's performance improved with Drogba's arrival, slowly climbing the table after a difficult start.
Why it matters for Didier Drogba
Zhu Jun's demands for more control could lead to the club releasing high-earning players like Drogba and Anelka.
The club's officials are concerned about the impact of the ownership dispute on the team's operations.
As of 2012, Zhu Jun had invested almost $90 million in the club, while the other shareholders spent nothing.
What comes next?
The club's future is uncertain, with fans waiting to see what happens next.
Drogba's arrival had brought a change in atmosphere and performances, but the off-field issues may jeopardize the team's progress.
The Oriental Sports Daily reported that Zhu Jun would only continue to pay his share of the costs if he is given more control.
A club official stated that the equity stakes issue has become the biggest bottleneck for the development of Shenhua.
The Chinese Super League season was nearing its end, with Shanghai Shenhua aiming to finish seventh or eighth.