"I couldn't verify his dribbling ability."

Le 10 Sport reported on the 24th (Korea time) that “columnist Pierre Ménès expressed his views on Lee Kang-in.”

Ménès pointed out through his YouTube channel, “I wonder if Lee Kang-in is generating revenue from jersey sales equivalent to his salary at Paris Saint-Germain (PSG). He often describes it as 'terrible.'

He added, “I don't see Lee Kang-in as a bad player, but he seems to be belonging to a team that is too high level. I couldn't verify his dribbling ability. I believe PSG's acquisition was a mistake.”

Despite such criticism, Lee Kang-in has been consistently appearing in matches since his debut, solidifying his position in the team. He has contributed to the offense this season as well, recording double-digit attacking points, and he has met the coach's expectations while fulfilling his role as a 'false 9.'

In a recent interview, Lee Kang-in said, “Every time I play as a forward, I am required to make a lot of movements. It's a positive challenge for me, and I'm contributing to creating space and scoring opportunities.” He also noted, “I want to play in any position. I am always ready to give my best for the team. All players strive to grow, and this attitude makes the team stronger. I am approaching this tournament with the mindset that every match is a final.”

Nevertheless, with Lee Kang-in's opportunities for selection recently decreasing, transfer rumors are resurfacing.

Live Foot reported that “PSG is considering parting ways with Lee Kang-in. Following evaluations that he has not met expectations, they are preparing to send him off in the summer transfer market.”

Furthermore, it was added that “PSG paid 22 million euros (35.8 billion won) to acquire him, and they achieved results in terms of influence in the Asian market and marketing aspects. However, it seems that he has not met expectations in terms of performance.”

Sport analyzed, “Lee Kang-in is working hard for success at PSG, but he is still not classified as a core resource. The possibility of a summer transfer cannot be ruled out.”

'RMC Sports' provided a more direct assessment. The media reported, “Lee Kang-in is becoming increasingly less noticeable and is not being utilized as a central player. Rather, it has been suggested that this is positively impacting team operations.”

Interest from Premier League clubs in Lee Kang-in is still valid.

Foot01 reported that “The timing of Lee Kang-in's transfer is approaching,” noting that “Crystal Palace is showing interest, and particularly Manchester United is keeping a close watch on Lee Kang-in under the strong recommendation of coach Rúben Amorim.”

Additionally, it was analyzed that “PSG is positively receiving the situation surrounding Lee Kang-in, and since Manchester United has sufficient financial resources, there is a possibility that negotiations could intensify in the future.”

Relevo reported in March that “Lee Kang-in's agent, Javier Garido, visited the UK and met with several Premier League clubs including Manchester United, Aston Villa, and Everton,” stating that “He is in charge of the management of Lee Kang-in, Abde Ezzalzouli (Real Betis), Harvey Guéret (Valencia), Iñaki Peña (Barcelona), and Jesús Fortea (Real Madrid).”

On the other hand, news was also reported that the PSG club is considering extending Lee Kang-in's contract. Le 10 Sport reported that “PSG is internally planning to early extend Lee Kang-in's contract. They aim to finalize negotiations before the end of the 2024-2025 season.”

Lee Kang-in is currently reported to be receiving a high annual salary of about 10 billion won at PSG, and if the contract is extended, there is a possibility he will receive a higher amount.

Meanwhile, opinions are divided on how to utilize Lee Kang-in. Recently, PSG coach Luis Enrique directly mentioned the positional issue of Lee Kang-in at a press conference.

Coach Enrique stated, “I know that the defensive midfielder position is not the optimal position for Lee Kang-in, but not every player can play in their desired position. Sometimes it provides an opportunity for mental growth.”

He added that “Lee Kang-in may not be happy with his current role, but the experience in other positions will benefit the player in the long term,” adding a somewhat controversial interpretation. In response, local media pointed out that “Not utilizing the best talent in the optimal position is a strategic mistake by the coach.”

[OSEN]