Amid ongoing speculation about Lee Kang-in's (24, Paris Saint-Germain (PSG)) potential summer transfer, Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) has instead moved forward with contract negotiations.

French media outlets noted on the 19th (Korean time) that PSG's internal contract strategy is receiving attention. France's 'Le 10 Sport' reported, "PSG wants to extend Lee Kang-in's contract. This is being pushed for directly by Director General Luis Campos," adding that this response was somewhat unexpected considering Lee's position, which has been diminished in recent competition for a starting role.

Lee Kang-in is currently under contract with PSG until June 2028. While it may not seem urgent for a contract extension given the remaining contract duration, PSG is considering early renewals for core talents to ensure long-term team stability. In fact, recent renewals have been completed for Achraf Hakimi, Nuno Mendes, and Vitinha, and this time, goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma, Bradley Barcola, and Lee Kang-in have been identified next.

Lee Kang-in is particularly evaluated as a versatile tactical resource under Coach Luis Enrique. He can perform as a central midfielder or on the flanks, and has received positive evaluations in terms of technical abilities, passing sense, and game management skills. However, since the start of 2025, his playing time has gradually decreased, and he was included on the substitute list in the recent Champions League quarter-final second leg against Aston Villa but did not receive any playing opportunity.

As a result, the possibility of Lee Kang-in's transfer has been consistently raised among local French media and fans. In fact, France's 'Foot01' reported, "Manchester United and Crystal Palace are likely new destinations for Lee Kang-in," adding, "Coach Ruben Amorim has evaluated Lee Kang-in as a player perfectly suited tactically."

Transfer rumors from Spain are also notable. Spain's 'El Desmarque' reported, "Lee Kang-in's agent Javier Garrido recently visited the UK to negotiate transfers with several clubs," noting that Manchester United, Aston Villa, and Everton have contacted Lee's side. Matteo Morreto, a reporter from Spain's 'Relevo' who first reported on Lee Kang-in's move to PSG, also claimed back in January, "The possibility of Lee Kang-in's transfer is very realistic, with several Premier League teams showing active interest."

Despite the variety of transfer rumors and the lack of playing opportunities, PSG continues to show efforts to include Lee Kang-in in its medium- to long-term plans. Footboom explained, "Lee Kang-in may not be flashy, but he is a player who can be flexibly utilized in both midfield and on the flanks. He has caught the interest of Coach Luis Enrique."

This shows that PSG is focusing on tactical flexibility and potential rather than short-term performance. Within the club, there are plans to develop Lee Kang-in into a core asset alongside Lucas Beraldo and Barcola, and an early contract renewal is an expression of that intent.

Lee Kang-in has recorded 6 goals and 5 assists in 26 league matches (15 starts, 11 substitutes) this season. While the numbers are by no means bad, it is clear that his standing has diminished as the season progresses. However, if PSG pushes for a contract extension, it would signify more than just a mere continuation. It can be interpreted as the intent to incorporate him firmly as a key resource in the team's future rotation.

Even without being part of the rotation, PSG is showcasing an invincible momentum through perfect combinations. In addition to winning the league, they have also reached the semi-finals of the UEFA Champions League (UCL). If they can defeat FC Barcelona in the semifinals, they find themselves in a position where they can aim for the title.

Simply being pushed out of the rotation does not mean that PSG is not a team with considerable merit. It remains to be seen whether Lee Kang-in will leave for a new challenge or remain in PSG to compete for a starting position as a member of a top team.

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