Melbourne Heart have granted Michael Marrone permission to travel to China with the view of signing for a Chinese Super League club.
The 25-year old defender, who has previously been linked with the likes of QPR, Charlton Athletic, Celtic and Cagliari, will finalise personal terms with an unnamed CSL club after making 70 appearances for the Heart since the clubs A-League inception.
"Michael has been a great servant of the Club and has become a fan favourite," Head Coach John Aloisi said.
"During his time with the Heart he has become one of the competition's standout full-backs, with his performances drawing recognition from his peers and earning him a Socceroos cap last month.
"Michael has been presented with a great opportunity and the Club will not stand in his way of chasing professional football in the highly-competitive Asian market.
"Michael has always expressed his desire to play football overseas and we wish him all the best in his future endeavours."
