Is it a joke from Napoli?
On the 23rd (Korean time), the Italian website 'TuttoNapoli' reported that “Lee Kang-in is one of the players that Napoli is keeping an eye on as they aim to strengthen their squad, but it is not serious interest, just casual interest.”
Lee Kang-in remained on the bench for the final league match against Auxerre, the French Cup final against Stade de Reims, and the Champions League final against Inter Milan. As a result, speculation about Lee Kang-in's unstable position and transfer rumors continue.
The transfer fee set by Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) for Lee Kang-in was 40 million euros (61.2 billion won). This amount is nearly double the 22 million euros (34.2 billion won) they paid to recruit Lee Kang-in from Mallorca two years ago. In fact, Napoli, which strongly desires Lee Kang-in, has expressed difficulties regarding this.
Considering that the highest transfer fee Napoli used for the 2024-2025 season was 35 million euros (54.3 billion won), the terms proposed by PSG are quite high. Nevertheless, PSG believes there is no need to rush to dispose of Lee Kang-in, who still has three years left on his contract.
While he is not a starter, PSG sees no reason to incur losses by letting Lee Kang-in go. Manager Luis Enrique has even utilized Lee Kang-in as a wide winger, central midfielder, and even a false nine until the middle of the season. In fact, Lee Kang-in was included in the Champions League final roster but ultimately did not get a chance to play.
Having remained on the bench for most of the big matches at the end of the season, he was practically classified as 'out of contention.' In a situation where his playing time is uncertain, a new team has become more of a necessity than an option for Lee Kang-in. Given that the price tag set by PSG is substantial, it is imperative to demonstrate his worth in the Club World Cup.
However, the transfer is expected to be delayed more than anticipated. Matteo Moreto, a reporter from Spain's 'Relevo,' also appeared on Fabrizio Romano's YouTube channel and talked about Lee Kang-in's situation. He noted, “Lee Kang-in is a player highly valued by Napoli. However, he is under a long-term contract with PSG and does not need to rush for a renewal right now.”
He further stated, “PSG sees no reason to sell Lee Kang-in and continues to classify him as an important player. While Napoli's interest is confirmed, the realistic possibility of a transfer at this time is low.” However, he added that “the possibility of a transfer to a third-country league, outside of Italy or France, remains open.”
Lee Kang-in is currently participating in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup as a member of PSG. On the 15th (local time), he secured a penalty kick in the added time of the second half during the match against Atlético Madrid in Pasadena, California, marking the end of the team's 4-0 victory. The opponent was Spain's national goalkeeper Jan Oblak.
In this tournament, Lee Kang-in aims for redemption. PSG will play their final group stage match in Group B against the Seattle Sounders, featuring Kim Ki-hee, who plays in the U.S. Major League Soccer, on the 24th. It remains to be seen whether Lee Kang-in can continue finding the net and prove his presence.
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