Literally, Lee Kang-in (24, Paris Saint-Germain) has fallen deeply in love.

Italy's 'Area Napoli' reported on the 27th (Korean time) that "there have been reports that Napoli is once again targeting Lee Kang-in. Napoli already attempted to recruit this South Korean player during the last winter transfer market. According to rumors, the club was interested in him and requested a trade as part of the transaction involving Khvicha Kvaratskhelia."

The report cited by Area Napoli was from Matteo Moreto, a journalist with Spain's 'Relevo.' He noted through social media on the same day that "the contract negotiations between Lee Kang-in and Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) have reached a standstill. He could be one of the big star players in the summer transfer market."

Moreto also said, "Several clubs are closely monitoring Lee Kang-in's situation. However, no club has reached a final agreement with PSG so far. Napoli, Premier League clubs, Spanish clubs, and Saudi Arabian clubs are all showing interest in him," explaining the current circumstances.

The reason to pay attention to the transfer news from Moreto is precisely because he has reported exclusively on Lee Kang-in multiple times. In fact, he is well-informed about news regarding Atletico Madrid, Mallorca, and more. Ultimately, since the news comes through him, the possibility of Lee Kang-in escaping PSG is becoming more credible.

Lee Kang-in is likely to part ways with PSG at the end of this season. Earlier, Spain's 'Estadio Deportivo' reported, "Lee Kang-in is ready to conclude his stay. PSG allowed his transfer while preparing for next season. Arsenal has shown interest in him, and his transfer fee has already been determined."

The biggest reason is the significantly reduced playing time. Lee Kang-in's status has diminished since the winter transfer market. He has played in several positions and alleviated coach Enrique's concerns, but he has failed to establish a solid position and has fallen into a rotation role. In fact, Lee Kang-in has been sitting on the bench during the crucial UEFA Champions League (UCL) matches.

Recently, Lee Kang-in has also struggled to get onto the field. He remained on the bench during the final league match against Auxerre and did not play a minute during the Coupe de France final against Stade Reims, completely excluded from coach Luis Enrique's plans. If this continues, he is likely to miss the UCL final against Inter Milan on the 1st of next month.

Lee Kang-in has also hinted at a potential transfer. Earlier this month, he deleted the PSG team name from his Instagram bio. This has led to interpretations among fans that he may have once again dropped a hint of a transfer, given that he had previously deleted the Mallorca team name from his Instagram before leaving for PSG.

PSG is reportedly looking to extend the contract of the versatile Lee Kang-in. However, the negotiations are facing difficulties. As PSG is filled with star players, it is challenging to find a common ground that guarantees the playing time Lee Kang-in desires.

Considering that Lee Kang-in's playing time has decreased even more in the second half of the season, remaining at PSG is bound to be a dilemma. This season, he has recorded 45 matches, 6 goals, and 5 assists, but his average playing time is merely 53.2 minutes. His transfer possibility has been mentioned in several notable French outlets, including 'L'Equipe.'

Moreover, with Moreto acknowledging the interest of several teams including Napoli, one of the prominent destinations at this point seems to be Napoli. Area Napoli cited reports from the Italian daily 'La Repubblica,' stating, "Director General Giovanni Manna is keeping an eye on two players for the club’s top priority, which is acquiring a winger."

Napoli noted, "PSG built a wall against letting Lee Kang-in go during the winter transfer market. The situation may have changed now. PSG does not exclude the possibility of a transfer and it is likely that it will happen in the summer transfer market. Napoli is expected to contend with many competitors but is monitoring the situation with interest. Lee Kang-in is a preferred player for many teams," he added.

"Napoli has not been able to adequately fill the vacancy left after Khvicha Kvaratskhelia left during the January transfer market. Now, Napoli is prepared to seek a winger that matches the level of their new status," he mentioned, bringing up the names of Edon Zhegrova (26, LOSC Lille) and Lee Kang-in.

'La Repubblica' stated, "Napoli needs to make significant efforts to enhance the squad. They must secure two offensive wingers. Zhegrova, who they negotiated with last August, and Lee Kang-in, who does not have European Union (EU) citizenship, are both drawing attention. Therefore, it is essential to carefully assess whether to utilize both non-EU quota spots in advance or to wait."

According to Serie A regulations, Lee Kang-in is classified under the non-EU quota. Just as Napoli struggled with Kim Min-jae's acquisition, utilizing the non-EU quota itself implies expectations of Lee Kang-in becoming a core player and ace for the team. This indicates a high level of anticipation.

This indicates that Napoli holds Lee Kang-in in high regard. Moreover, if they desire to recruit Lee Kang-in as part of the transaction involving Khvicha, PSG is likely to enter negotiations quickly. It will be interesting to see what kind of performance Lee Kang-in will display if he joins the Serie A leaders this season.

[Photo] Lee Kang-in, PSG, Ligue 1 social media.

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