Napoli's interest in Lee Kang-in (24, Paris Saint-Germain) is very serious. They value him highly, to the extent that they would ask for him in order to take their star.

Italian outlet Arena Napoli reported on the 4th (Korea time) that "Napoli has wanted Lee Kang-in for a long time. They are once again trying to bring him in through a third attempt in this summer transfer market," adding, "It will be a signing that manager Antonio Conte wants personally."

The key to PSG's achievement of the European treble (Ligue 1, domestic cup, Trophée des Champions, Champions League) this season was Khvicha, who was acquired in January for about €80 million (approximately 1.26 trillion won). He quickly earned the trust of manager Luis Enrique and secured a starting spot that alternates between the left and center. In contrast, Lee Kang-in found himself sidelined as a bench player for most of the season's final stretch and the Champions League tournament.

Although Lee Kang-in participated in 45 official matches for PSG, he started in only 26 of them, and he had just 4 starts in the Champions League. He notably did not get a chance to play in the final against Inter Milan (5-0 victory), which left him with regret as he lifted the trophy.

Although PSG hoped for a contract renewal with Lee Kang-in, the player himself wants more playing opportunities. Several clubs that want Lee Kang-in have approached him. Among them, Napoli has been the most proactive. According to reports, Napoli has prioritized Lee Kang-in as their top transfer target in the summer market.

Director General Giovanni Manna has been closely monitoring Lee Kang-in for several occasions and has attempted to acquire him twice, in the summer of 2024 and January 2025. At that time, PSG classified Lee Kang-in as "not for sale" and firmly rejected the offers. The situation remains the same; however, it is now a situation where the wishes of a player who wants to leave must be respected.

In fact, Lee Kang-in played various positions (winger, central midfielder, attacking midfielder) last season at PSG, but he was unable to secure a solid starting position. Being utilized as a rotation resource among teammates classified as world-class has increased his thirst for opportunities rather than showcasing his skills.

At this point, PSG has placed a price tag of about €40 million (approximately 629 billion won) on Lee Kang-in, and Napoli is looking to negotiate for a structure that combines a loan with a full transfer option or includes bonuses instead of a one-time payment. The positive cooperative relationship between the two clubs also increases the likelihood of a successful transfer.

Meanwhile, following the extension of manager Conte's contract, Napoli has embarked on a major squad rebuilding effort. Although they have won the championship, Napoli seeks more players and one of their tasks is to reconfigure their midfield, with Lee Kang-in and Inter Milan's Davide Frattesi both being prominent targets.

Conte prefers tactics that emphasize quick offensive transitions, strong pressing, and momentary creativity, and Lee Kang-in is considered a player who can meet all these criteria. His ability to move between the left and right flanks while orchestrating the game flow from the second line and to make quick decisions in tight spaces is seen as a significant strength.

Arena Napoli reported that "currently, the top transfer target for Napoli is PSG's attacking midfielder Lee Kang-in. He is a player who boasts versatility and offensive capabilities, being able to play as a mezzala," indicating that "Napoli has officially submitted a transfer proposal to PSG."

The outlet explained, "Napoli has already attempted to sign Lee Kang-in twice before, but PSG rejected them. Napoli is so enamored with him that they intend to ask for him during the negotiations for the sale of Osimhen in the summer 2024 transfer market and the sale of Khvicha in the winter 2025 transfer market."

Literally, Napoli has been consistently trying to bring Lee Kang-in in to establish him as their new core. In fact, local media in Naples have continually stated, "Napoli regards Lee Kang-in as their next core player. Therefore, they have consistently hoped for his transfer." It remains to be seen what outcome Napoli's persistent pursuit of Lee Kang-in will result in.

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