France media is also paying attention to the possibility of Lee Kang-in (24, Paris Saint-Germain) wearing a Napoli uniform.
On the 13th (Korean time), Napoli announced through its official social media that they have signed Kevin De Bruyne from Manchester City on a free transfer. De Bruyne is expected to spend three seasons at Napoli under a 2+1 year contract, with the contract value reported to be around 26 million euros (approximately 40.7 billion won).
This is considered one of the most iconic signings in the club's history. Additionally, Napoli is immediately targeting Lee Kang-in as the "next puzzle." Promising full support to coach Antonio Conte, Napoli is ramping up efforts to finalize the signing of Lee Kang-in, whom they have been closely monitoring for a long time.
The transfer fee set by Paris Saint-Germain for Lee Kang-in was 40 million euros (61.2 billion won). This amount is almost double the 22 million euros (34.2 billion won) that was paid two years ago when they acquired Lee Kang-in from Mallorca. Considering that the highest transfer fee Napoli spent for acquisitions in the 2024-2025 season was 35 million euros (54.3 billion won), the conditions presented by Paris Saint-Germain are quite high.
Paris Saint-Germain has determined that there is no urgent need to dispose of Lee Kang-in, whose contract has three years remaining. Although he is not a starter, Paris Saint-Germain sees no reason to incur a loss by letting him go. Coach Luis Enrique has utilized Lee Kang-in as a winger, central midfielder, and even as a false nine during the mid-season.
There appeared to be a possibility early in the season, but his playing time drastically decreased from the mid to late season. After confirming the Ligue 1 championship, Lee Kang-in played the full match against Montpellier, but since then, he has not been featured even once in major games like the Coupe de France final or the UEFA Champions League final.
Lee Kang-in was included in the UEFA Champions League final roster but did not get a chance to play. He spent most of the important matches at the end of the season on the bench, effectively being classified as "out of contention." In a situation where playing time is uncertain, a new team for Lee Kang-in is more of a necessity than a choice.
In this context, Italy's Napoli is consistently mentioned as a strong candidate for Lee Kang-in's next destination. Napoli, led by Kim Min-jae (currently at Bayern Munich), who played a key role in securing the league championship, had previously considered Lee Kang-in as a player exchange option during negotiations for Khvicha Kvaratskhelia. The club has highly regarded Lee Kang-in for his technical completeness and experience in European competitions.
Nonetheless, Napoli is still strongly hoping to sign Lee Kang-in. Instead of pivoting to other players, they are determined to find a way to acquire him. Over the past year, Napoli has persistently expressed interest in Lee Kang-in, probing for his signing three times.
Additionally, the Italian media 'Spazio Napoli' exclusively reported that "Napoli has reached a principle agreement with Paris Saint-Germain regarding Lee Kang-in's transfer." Paris Saint-Germain initially demanded 40 million euros but is said to have softened its stance on Napoli's proposal of 30 million to 35 million euros.
After the match against Kuwait, Lee Kang-in mentioned in a recent interview, "I am also seeing articles about it. We will know for sure when the season ends." Above all, what stands out is the possibility of Lee Kang-in playing alongside De Bruyne at Napoli. Although their playing styles are different, they could create synergy in their role of "orchestrating and creating plays in the midfield."
French media also paid attention to this statement. France's 'Foot Mercato' diagnosed, "Lee Kang-in's remarks clearly demonstrate the common uncertainty faced by PSG players. Lee Kang-in, who joined PSG in 2023, has a strong desire to help the team. However, as his playing time decreases in the highly competitive PSG, he feels a special pressure."
Furthermore, it continued, "Lee Kang-in, who performed well last season, is well aware that his future depends on the club's strategic choices. In a tough environment, Lee Kang-in possesses versatile talents and can play a decisive role. However, one cannot take anything for granted in a team with deep player ranks like PSG," emphasizing PSG's choices.
Ultimately, the fact that French media is also paying attention to changes in Lee Kang-in's status indicates that the likelihood of a transfer has increased somewhat.
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