As interest in Lee Kang-in (24) of Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) heats up, it seems a variable for a transfer to Napoli has emerged.
'Corriere dello Sport' reported on the 17th (Korea time) that "Napoli's contact with Lee Kang-in, who is under PSG, is delayed because the future of midfielder Anguissa has not been decided."
Anguissa, who raised the Scudetto (Serie A championship trophy) twice during his three seasons in Napoli, seemed likely to head to Al-Qadisiya in Saudi Arabia this summer. However, there has been no confirmation about the transfer.
'Corriere dello Sport' noted that "Anguissa is also considering staying with the team."
Anguissa is contracted with Napoli until the summer of 2027.
Napoli was planning to use the money from selling Anguissa to acquire new players.
However, if he stays, Napoli's acquisition plans could become quite complicated. Lee Kang-in could potentially become a scapegoat.
Lee Kang-in is currently reported to be receiving interest from Serie A champion Napoli and Al-Nassr, where Cristiano Ronaldo plays.
In particular, Napoli is said to have made Lee Kang-in their top target to strengthen their creative midfield.
The Italian media outlet 'Spazio Napoli' exclusively reported on the 10th that "Napoli has reached a preliminary agreement with PSG regarding the acquisition of Lee Kang-in." Some media have said that they have reached the transfer agreement stage beyond simple interest.
PSG initially wanted a transfer fee of €40 million (approximately 62.5 billion won), but it is reported that they accepted Napoli's offer, which ranged from €30 million (approximately 46.8 billion won) to €35 million (approximately 54.6 billion won).
Lee Kang-in gained attention as a global prospect while playing for Valencia and Mallorca. Notably, he had a career-high season in La Liga during the 2022-2023 season, appearing in 39 matches and recording six goals and six assists.
Lee Kang-in, who transferred to PSG in the summer of 2023, has played various roles as a midfielder and forward, seamlessly transitioning between mezzala, false nine, and other positions. This season, he has participated in 46 official matches, scoring seven goals and providing six assists.
Lee Kang-in achieved a treble by winning the Ligue 1, Coupe de France, and UEFA Champions League (UCL) trophies in the 2024-2025 season, but his position has somewhat diminished due to competition for starting spots in the second half of the season.
There is a consensus that Lee Kang-in should transfer to a team where he can play a central role.
Although the atmosphere was leaning towards a transfer to Napoli, it appears Anguissa is throwing cold water on the situation.
[Photo] PSG, Ligue 1, Kicking Cleats, Transfermarkt, Lee Kang-in's social media.
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