Lee Kang-in (24, Paris Saint-Germain) has removed the name of his team, Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), from his social media profile. This change comes two years after joining PSG in the summer of 2023.

On the 6th (Korea time), Lee Kang-in deleted the PSG phrase from his Instagram bio. While the photos he uploaded with his PSG teammates remain, he has removed the team name.

Among fans, interpretations are arising that Lee Kang-in, who was recently engulfed in transfer rumors, has once again left hints about a transfer. He previously removed the Mallorca team name from his Instagram before leaving for PSG, which supports the argument that parting ways with PSG may be approaching.

Currently, Lee Kang-in is at the center of transfer rumors. Recently, Spain's Estadio Deportivo reported, "Lee Kang-in is ready to end his journey with PSG. PSG has allowed his transfer while preparing for next season. Arsenal is showing interest in him, and his value has already been set."

The media stated, "Lee Kang-in will leave PSG this summer. PSG is facing one of the most significant moments in its history. Having already confirmed the league title several weeks ago, PSG's task now is to win the UEFA Champions League (UCL). While we do not know what will happen in the second leg of the semifinals against Arsenal, PSG's board is already focusing on the future and team composition," indicating that PSG is planning for the summer transfer market.

Lee Kang-in left Mallorca for PSG in the summer of 2023. He caught the eye of Director Luis Campos and received high expectations after signing a five-year contract. The transfer fee at that time was around 22 million euros (approximately 34.5 billion won).

Having had a decent first season, Lee Kang-in seemed to be earning even more trust from coach Luis Enrique this season. Until the beginning of the season, he showcased his versatility by taking on several roles, including 'false nine,' right winger, and central midfielder. He also accumulated several attacking points, approaching his career high.

However, following the winter transfer market, his presence in the team sharply diminished. With new players pushing through, Lee Kang-in fell behind in the starting competition. He has not secured a starting position as a central midfielder or wide attacker and has become merely a rotational resource. In fact, he has consistently been on the bench at the crucial UCL stage.

Naturally, transfer rumors have not ceased. France's Sport noted, "Lee Kang-in was brought in to solidify his position in PSG's midfield but has not become an essential player. The PSG board is considering selling Lee Kang-in to make space for new reinforcements. It remains unclear whether they will choose to loan or transfer him to revitalize his career, as he has found it challenging to secure a proper position in Paris."

Lee Kang-in's performance this season includes 43 matches, 6 goals, and 6 assists. However, among these, he started 24 matches and came off the bench in 19 games. His total playing time of 2,307 minutes ranks him 14th on the team. Especially in the second half of the season, his role has reduced, rendering him virtually absent from the UCL stage.

Lee Kang-in inevitably has his frustrations. According to the French publication L'Equipe, he desires more opportunities in significant matches. However, given the team's success, he is currently holding back to avoid causing issues. PSG and Lee Kang-in are expected to discuss his future after the season.

Now, PSG is also open to selling Lee Kang-in. PSG rejected Arsenal's offers in the last winter transfer market but is now inclined to allow a transfer if a suitable offer comes in.

According to L'Equipe, PSG still highly values Lee Kang-in's versatility. Furthermore, since he is a player favored by coach Enrique, they want to extend his contract. However, if Lee Kang-in wishes to leave for more playing time, they seem likely to facilitate his transfer at a reasonable fee.

Specific amounts have also been mentioned. L'Equipe explained that a transfer fee of 20 million euros (approximately 31.7 billion won) could bring PSG to the negotiation table. Until January, PSG wanted to receive double the amount they paid Mallorca in 2023, which was 22 million euros (approximately 34.7 billion won), but they have halved their demands in just six months.

The likely destination is the Premier League. In fact, several clubs, including Arsenal, made inquiries regarding Lee Kang-in's transfer last winter, but PSG reportedly rejected all of them. Besides Arsenal, Manchester United, Newcastle United, Crystal Palace, Nottingham Forest, and Tottenham Hotspur have been connected with him.

At that time, Italy's Tutto Mercato reported, "Newcastle and Manchester United have sent scouts several times to observe Lee Kang-in. Both teams have inquired for information and will attempt to make a transfer. The first contacts have already been made. The valuation amounts to around 40 million euros (approximately 60.4 billion won). The amount may change once negotiations start."

France's Foot 01 also reported, "Manchester United, with far greater financial power than Palace, is also participating in the competition for Lee Kang-in's transfer. Coach Ruben Amorim highly values him. Coach Amorim is confident that Lee Kang-in can contribute to his tactical system." Additionally, Lee Kang-in's agent, Javier Garido, visited England last month to meet with Manchester United, Aston Villa, and Everton, further fueling rumors.

Among them, Arsenal is strongly connected with Lee Kang-in. Arsenal, who wanted Lee Kang-in last winter, may move again. At that time, it was reported that coach Mikel Arteta attempted to acquire Lee Kang-in amid numerous injuries to attackers, including Bukayo Saka.

Estadio Deportivo stated, "Arsenal is knocking on the door. They will welcome Lee Kang-in's joining next season. Arsenal will have no trouble bringing Lee Kang-in for the amount PSG desires. This will be a special request from coach Mikel Arteta."

Arsenal aims to strengthen both a front-line striker and second-line resources this summer. Captain Martin Ødegaard is struggling, and both Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard have not been living up to expectations. With sharp kicking, creative passing ability, and the ability to bypass pressure, Lee Kang-in could be a good competitor.

One thing is clear: Lee Kang-in is at a significant crossroads. Estadio Deportivo commented, "Lee Kang-in, who grew up in Valencia's youth team, made his first-team debut on January 1, 2019. Before joining Mallorca on a free transfer, he played 62 matches. During two seasons at Mallorca, he recorded 73 matches, scoring 7 goals and providing 10 assists. This summer, a new destination will be added to Lee Kang-in's career," expressing confidence in his transfer.

[Photo] Lee Kang-in, World of Football, PSG, 365 Scores social media.

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