Transfer news: Former QPR striker Jay Bothroyd signs sensational £5m tax-free deal with Thai side Muangthong United

"This is a fantastic challenge and I am looking forward to life in Thailand with my family," Bothroyd says upon signing the deal

Muangthong United's new signing Jay Bothroyd (Muangthong United)

Jay Bothroyd, dubbed 'JayBo' by his new club, has signed a lucrative tax-free deal which will earn him £5m over two years at Thai Premier League side Muangthong United.

The 31-year-old former England international has joined on a two-year deal after 50,000 fans turned out at the Yamaha Stadium to watch him play in a friendly match earlier this week.

The deal, which also includes sizable image rights, will see Bothroyd join Muangthong in their attempts to win the Asian Champions League.

The Asian giants, who signed Liverpool legend Robbie Fowler at the age of thirty-six in 2011, see Bothroyd as a major breakthrough in promoting the country's growing league.

Since joining, Bothroyd's face has been plastered over billboards in Bangkok while the story has been the lead item on the national TV news channels.

The former Cardiff and QPR striker said: "It’s an unbelievably exciting opportunity, first and foremost I want to repay the faith paid in me by playing well for the club and fans.

"Muangthong United is the biggest club in Thailand and has the potential to be one of the most successful in Asia.

"Along with the playing side I will be working with the club to promote the team and league on a global basis and that is something I am going to love doing.

"Thailand is a beautiful country and football is the national sport here, the passion and interest in football is just amazing, it’s been quite overwhelming the reception I have received here.

"This is a fantastic challenge and I am looking forward to life in Thailand with my family."