While the MLS usually signs players that are way past their prime, the CSL seems more interested in fresh talent. Which league is better?

Considering that the Chinese Super League teams spent €300 million during the current transfer window, some fans and experts are starting to wonder if the CSL will become a true competitor in international football.

Recently, Oscar (Chelsea) and Carlos Tévez (Boca Juniors) joined the league from the Far East after signing hefty deals with Shanghai SIPG and Shanghai Shenhua, respectively. Tévez became the highest-paid footballer in the world, and even though he's 32, his skills haven't diminished a bit, which can guarantee his new employers tons of quality football for the next couple of years. That's been this league's marketing plan: bringing not-so-old players to help them develop their league. Apparently, putting large amounts of cash in front of marquee names is paying off, even if some people don't believe in their chances of success.

On the other hand, the MLS seems to be losing their power to negotiate with top-caliber players, as some of their marquee names have opted to leave their North American clubs searching for other employment opportunities or even retirement. Names such as Didier Drogba, Frank Lampard or Steven Gerrard were seduced by the almighty dollar years ago, but they only lasted a couple of seasons at best, refusing to sign extensions and leaving the 20-year old league. The case of Obafemi Martins, who left Seattle Sounders to join Tianjin Teda, is a good example of a player ready to leave the MLS to secure one last big payday.

Here is a list of all major footballers included in MLS or CSL rosters. Furthermore, we're adding a list of players being tempted by Chinese teams.

But why do players from around the world choose to play in a not-so-demanding league? Defender Benoit Assou-Ekotto doesn't sugar coat it.

"I don't understand why everybody lies. All people, everyone, when they go to a job, it's for the money. So I don't understand why, when I said I play for the money, people were shocked. Oh, he's a mercenary. Every player is like that," the Cameroonian player stated.

Assou-Ekotto left the Premier League a couple of years ago to join Saint-Etienne.

On the other hand, there are players out there that believe the MLS can become a top-caliber league with this business approach (hiring not-so-young players). One of those players is Mexican striker Chicharito, who was linked with a move to Orlando City before joining Bayer Leverkusen.

"I think in the future, it's going to be one of the best leagues in the world, definitely. The country, the people, the culture, the sports, they have everything to achieve that," Hernández told Bayer Leverkusen's website.

Hernández is one of Mexico's most charismatic players, making him a dream signing for any team trying to get their business going South of the border.

So, which league's investment will pay off in the long run? Share your thoughts on our Facebook page!