Interest in Lee Kang-in (24, PSG) continues without interruption.
French 'Sports Zone' reported on the 10th that 'Saudi Pro League Al Nassr has begun negotiations with PSG for the transfer of Lee Kang-in, the attacking midfielder of the Korean national team. Lee Kang-in transferred to Ligue 1 champion PSG from La Liga's Mallorca two years ago. PSG acquired Lee Kang-in to inject youth and creativity into the team following Neymar's transfer.'
This is an unusual courting. The Saudi league primarily acquires veteran players who are past their prime, based on massive funds. Son Heung-min, who won the Europa League, is also being discussed regarding a possible move to Saudi Arabia. The rumors of 24-year-old Lee Kang-in moving to Saudi Arabia are shocking.
Recently, Al Nassr prioritized re-signing Cristiano Ronaldo. They parted ways with Sadio Mané. Al Nassr aims to fill the void through Lee Kang-in.
Italian 'Spazio Napoli' reported on the 9th that 'Napoli has reached a principled agreement with PSG for the transfer of Lee Kang-in. Negotiations are progressing smoothly at the club level.'
After Khvicha Kvaratskhelia joined PSG, Lee Kang-in's position has been shaken. Kvaratskhelia was instrumental in winning championships alongside Kim Min-jae during his time at Napoli. He transferred to PSG for a fee of €80 million last January. He immediately became a starter at the big club and played a crucial role in PSG's treble. He also showed outstanding performance in the Champions League final.
If Lee Kang-in moves to Napoli, it would mean a swap of positions between the two players. The decrease in Lee Kang-in's playing time is the cause. PSG won all competitions last season, achieving a quadruple. They secured the Ligue 1 title as well as the Champions League. However, Lee Kang-in did not play a single second in the crucial final.
Coach Luis Enrique has prioritized Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Désiré Doué, excluding Lee Kang-in from the core. Lee Kang-in has not even been substituted in five Champions League matches.
'Spazio Napoli' reported that 'Lee Kang-in does not want to leave PSG. There are still issues regarding image rights. Lee Kang-in is a popular player who ranks first in uniform sales in Korea. Napoli needs to resolve this issue.'
Ultimately, the key to Lee Kang-in's transfer is the player's intention. Lee Kang-in wants to stay at PSG and prove himself. However, the courting around him continues.
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