Kim Min-jae (29, Bayern Munich) is set to join Napoli, where Lee Kang-in (24, Paris Saint-Germain) will go.
The Italian outlet Spazio Napoli reported on the 9th that "Napoli has reached a fundamental agreement with PSG for the acquisition of Lee Kang-in. Negotiations are progressing smoothly at the club level."
Napoli is a familiar club. Kim Min-jae played as the starting defender during the 2022-23 season and led the team to its first Serie A title in 33 years. Napoli lifted the league trophy last season as well. Antonio Conte, who was Son Heung-min's coach, took over and rebuilt the team within a year.
"Corriere dello Sport" added that "Lee Kang-in recorded 6 goals and 6 assists last season, but after the arrival of Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, he fell to the bench. Napoli has plans to utilize this situation to bring Lee Kang-in to Napoli."
Currently, Lee Kang-in's market value is reported to be 40 million euros (approximately 62.3 billion won). It is possible for PSG and Napoli to agree on loaning Lee Kang-in or reducing his transfer fee.
There are also variables. Spazio Napoli reported that "There are issues regarding Lee Kang-in's likeness rights. Lee Kang-in is a popular player who ranks first in uniform sales in Korea. Napoli needs to resolve this issue," noting that he does not wish to leave PSG.
Kvaratskhelia is the one who shared the championship with Kim Min-jae during their time at Napoli. He transferred to PSG for a transfer fee of 80 million euros (approximately 124.5 billion won) last January. Immediately securing a starting position at a big club, he played a crucial role in PSG's treble, even making a significant impact in the Champions League final, pushing Lee Kang-in out.
If Lee Kang-in remains at PSG, there will be no more spots available for him. This outlet noted that "In France, Lee Kang-in could not secure the playing time he desires. He scored 6 goals and has tremendous potential for growth. His possibilities could explode at Napoli," actively encouraging a move to Napoli.
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