Lee Kang-in considers Saudi move as PSG role diminishes

Once again, rumors of a transfer to Saudi Arabia have surfaced. There are reports that Lee Kang-in (23, Paris Saint-Germain) has become uncertain in his position at Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and could be heading to Saudi Arabia.

Spanish media 'Pichajes' reported on the 23rd (Korean time) that 'Lee Kang-in, who is part of the PSG squad, may sign with a Saudi club this summer. He has not been able to find his place at PSG.'

The media reported, 'Young Korean forward Lee Kang-in came to Paris with the ambition to establish his position among European elites. However, he has taken on a more supportive role than expected. His talent is undeniable, but opportunities have been scarce at PSG, where competition for spots in the attack is fierce. Under these circumstances, Lee Kang-in has begun to consider ways to restart his career outside Parc des Princes (PSG's home ground).'

In fact, Lee Kang-in has recently been pushed out of the internal competition at PSG. Until the first half of the season, he managed to secure playing time by playing as a false nine, winger, and central midfielder. It was disappointing that he could not establish himself firmly in one position, but he has received praise from coach Luis Enrique.

However, once the winter transfer window closed, the atmosphere shifted. After Khvicha Kvaratskhelia joined the team, Lee Kang-in became a bench member. Ousmane Dembélé's impressive performances earned him the spot as a new striker, while Désiré Doué and Bradley Barcola have also gained the trust of coach Enrique.

In the midfield, Vitinha and 'newcomer' João Neves have firmly established themselves as starters. Fabian Ruiz and Warren Zaïre-Emery are also holding strong for the remaining position. Ultimately, Lee Kang-in has become a rotational resource, failing to secure a starting position either as a central midfielder or a winger, and has been overlooked in the most important UEFA Champions League (UCL) stage.

Naturally, transfer rumors have emerged. French media 'Sport' stated, 'Lee Kang-in was brought in to solidify his position in the PSG midfield but has not become an essential player.' It added, 'PSG's board is considering selling Lee Kang-in to create space for a new reinforcement. It remains uncertain whether they will choose to loan or transfer him in order to revitalize his career after not finding a proper position in Paris.'

Rumors of a move to the Premier League have also heated up. Since last winter, various clubs, including Arsenal, Manchester United, Newcastle United, and Crystal Palace, have shown interest in Lee Kang-in. Adding to this, his agent, Javier Garrido, visited England last month and conducted talks with Manchester United, Aston Villa, and Everton, fueling speculation.

Among them, Manchester United has been connected to Lee Kang-in. Earlier, Italian media 'Tutto Mercato' reported that 'Newcastle and Manchester United have sent scouts multiple times to observe Lee Kang-in. Both teams have inquired for information and will attempt to make a signing. Initial contact has already been made. The valuation is approximately €40 million (about 60.4 billion won). The amount may change as negotiations begin.'

Recently, French media 'Foot 01' also reported that 'Manchester United, which has significantly more financial power than Palace, is also participating in the competition to sign Lee Kang-in. Coach Rubén Amorim highly values him. Coach Amorim is confident that Lee Kang-in can contribute to his tactical system.'

Under Coach Amorim, Manchester United, which is striving to rebuild its reputation, is known to be seeking creative attacking resources like Lee Kang-in. According to British media 'Give Me Sport,' Manchester United has set its sights on five players, including two 'blockbuster' signings. They are looking to reinforce a partner for central midfielder Manuel Ugarte, a creative forward, and strengthen the defense.

Lee Kang-in is a player who can deliver creative passes while moving between the flanks and central positions. He can operate just behind the striker or take responsibility on the wing in Coach Amorim's 3-4-2-1 formation. Give Me Sport also stated, 'Old Trafford needs a new forward. Manchester United's only threats are Amad Diallo and Bruno Fernandes. The acquisition of Lee Kang-in may be what is needed in the final third.'

However, recently Manchester United has shifted its focus to signing strikers like Matheus Cunha, and mentions of Lee Kang-in have diminished. Meanwhile, Pichajes has again reported on the possibility of Lee Kang-in transferring to Saudi Arabia. There were also talks about Lee Kang-in being targeted by Saudi clubs last summer.

Pichajes stated, 'Lee Kang-in could leave PSG. One of the recently notable options is a move to Saudi Arabia. The growth of the Saudi Pro League has attracted the interest of many officials in the international football community, and Lee Kang-in is not someone unfamiliar with this trend. The economic and sporting conditions of the Saudi project, along with the possibility of taking on a leading role, could greatly influence their decision.'

Additionally, the media noted, 'PSG has not officially mentioned Lee Kang-in's future yet. However, internally, they are already considering the possibility of a transfer. The board believes that a move or loan to an emerging league could provide Lee Kang-in with experience while offering the chance to secure a position in a team filled with already famous players. They said that if Lee Kang-in expresses a positive intention, discussions about the transfer could gain momentum.'

For Saudi Arabia, Lee Kang-in's skill as well as his significant marketing potential is attractive. Pichajes added, 'Saudi believes that a player like Lee Kang-in could elevate the level of competition and attract a more global fanbase. His joining would signal that the Saudi league is no longer just a golden vacation spot but a serious destination for young talents seeking reputation.'

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