Lee Kang-in (24, PSG) is experiencing fluctuations in his standing in Europe once again. This time it is in Italy, not France. Napoli's Director General expressed interest in Lee's potential, and signs have emerged that negotiations for his transfer are now underway behind the scenes.
Arena Napoli reported on the 30th (Korea time) that "Napoli's Director General Cristiano Giovanni highly values Lee Kang-in's performance at PSG, and specific internal discussions for his acquisition are taking place." With a key club figure directly involved, the possibility of a transfer has moved closer to a realistic stage, beyond mere interest.
Lee Kang-in's life at PSG is no longer smooth. In the early part of the season, under manager Luis Enrique, he was given opportunities to play both as a winger and an attacking midfielder, but as the season progressed, his playing time has noticeably diminished. Along with positional instability, his standing has been shaken, and in recent weeks, he has been absent from important match line-ups.
His last appearance was in a match against Montpellier on May 11, when the league title had already been secured, and he was ultimately not substituted in the Coupe de France final that followed. Essentially, his "tactical value" has been pushed down the priority list at PSG.
Matteo Moreto of Relevo reported that "Lee Kang-in and PSG have completely halted contract negotiations, and Lee is prepared to make a decision about his future as the transfer market opens."
Amid this, Napoli's courting of Lee Kang-in is noteworthy. According to multiple Italian media outlets, including Il Manito, Napoli is preparing to revamp its attacking lineup this summer and has included two wingers on its acquisition list. Despite being a non-EU player, Lee is considered the 'top priority' by the Director General.
Director General Manato is reported to have highly valued Lee Kang-in's ability to break through defenses, play in conjunction with others, and utilize creativity in tight spaces. Within the club, discussions are underway about utilizing Lee as the focal point of team tactics for the next 2 to 3 years.
Lee Kang-in's transfer fee has been set at around 30 million euros (47 billion won). This is a level that Napoli can realistically afford, and PSG had also indicated a willingness to sell, having announced plans for a major squad rebuilding ahead of the summer transfer market.
If Lee Kang-in joins Napoli, he will become the second Korean to wear the Napoli jersey after Kim Min-jae (Bayern Munich). Kim Min-jae played a central role in leading Napoli to its first league title in 33 years during the 2022-2023 season, earning local acclaim as a 'wall.' Should Lee's transfer to Napoli become a reality, he will also have the opportunity to write a new success story on the Serie A stage.
Local Italian media have described the atmosphere as "similar to when Kim Min-jae was acquired," and within Napoli, there are hopes that "the commercial value of the Korean market may also play a positive role."
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