Napoli targets Lee Kang-in as replacement for Kvaratskhelia amid transfer talks

Lee Kang-in (24, Paris Saint-Germain) is being linked with Serie A's Napoli.

The Italian media 'Football Italia' reported on the 3rd (Korea time), "Napoli is actively pursuing the signing of Lee Kang-in from PSG. This means they are considering him as a replacement given the transfer of Khvicha Kvaratskhelia."

Kvaratskhelia transferred to PSG this January. Although Napoli successfully lifted the Serie A championship trophy this season, they are eager to sign a forward in preparation for the next season.

Napoli has pinpointed Lee Kang-in as a player they want to bring in. 'Il Mattino' noted, "Napoli is focusing on Lee Kang-in and preparing a decisive transfer offer," adding, "Despite having a contract with PSG until 2028, Lee Kang-in could choose a new environment."

'L'Equipe' also stated, "Lee Kang-in and Gonzalo Hamus have been excluded from PSG's plans for next season. The two players have been granted permission to find new teams in the summer transfer market."

Lee Kang-in transferred from Mallorca in Spain to PSG before last season, taking on the challenge in the French league. In his first season, he played various positions including right winger, attacking midfielder, central midfielder, and false 9. He recorded 5 goals and 5 assists in 36 official matches, exceeding expectations.

However, this season, he struggled to secure a starting position in the competition. Competing against notable teammates like Désiré Doué, Warren Zaïre-Emery, Vitinha, and João Neves, Lee Kang-in could not secure a starting spot. Although he recorded 6 goals and 6 assists in 45 official matches this season, he only started 25 times.

Even though Lee Kang-in was pushed down the pecking order, the team's performance was impressive. PSG achieved a historic treble this season, winning the Ligue 1, Coupe de France, and UEFA Champions League (UCL). Regardless of Lee Kang-in's participation, PSG continued to thrive.

As a result, there is a prevailing view that Lee Kang-in needs to find a place where he can play.

The transfer fee seems to be a key issue.

'Football Italia' predicted, "Lee Kang-in's transfer fee is set at 40 million euros (about 63 billion won). However, considering the relationship between PSG and Napoli, it could be discounted to some extent or could be structured as a loan with a full transfer option included."

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