The transfer clock for Lee Kang-in (23 · PSG) is ticking again. A prominent local journalist in France noted, "Napoli still shows strong affection for Lee Kang-in," suggesting the possibility of resuming negotiations by even mentioning specific transfer fees.
French football reporter Romain Collet-Gaudin said on the 3rd (Korean time) through his social media, "Napoli still has deep interest in Lee Kang-in and wants to sign him right away," adding, "The transfer fee demanded by PSG is up to 30 million euros (45 billion won). The decision now rests with Napoli."
Currently, PSG is refraining from a massive overhaul of its core players following the UEFA Champions League victory. However, under manager Luis Enrique, Lee Kang-in's role is gradually diminishing over time. Excluded from major matches due to competition for starting positions, he is showing movements to seek a stable playing environment ahead of the 2026 North and Central America World Cup.
Interest surrounding Lee Kang-in is not limited to France and Italy. Premier League club Crystal Palace shows strong interest despite the transfer fee reaching 30 million euros. Club owner John Textor is leading the transfer discussions, and the coaching staff in London has reportedly been impressed by Lee Kang-in's tactical versatility and creativity.
Despite limitations on participating in the UEFA Europa League due to its multinational club structure, Palace has made its intention clear to make Lee Kang-in a key resource for the team. This suggests that they intend to treat him not merely as a rotation player but as a 'centerpiece.' In response, clubs like Napoli, Manchester United, Arsenal, and Atletico Madrid are also keeping an eye on Lee Kang-in's movements, indicating intense competition.
Napoli is a club that has already made three transfer offers to Lee Kang-in. However, negotiations were halted as PSG refused to sell at that time. Subsequently, Napoli began targeting side players such as Noah Lang (PSV), Jadon Sancho (Manchester United), Daan Heymans (Bologna), and Federico Chiesa (Liverpool) to build a new attacking combination. Under new manager Antonio Conte, Lee Kang-in's name has not even been mentioned, and transfer rumors seemed to submerge.
However, as Coach Conte finished revamping the midfield by acquiring Kevin De Bruyne and Noah Lang, it is being analyzed that Napoli is once again focusing on Lee Kang-in. Considering Conte's tactical style, Lee Kang-in's ability to create space through short passes and his playmaking skills are regarded as attractive options.
Spanish transfer market reporter Matteo Moretto said, "Lee Kang-in's transfer has not been decided yet. Within PSG, he is still seen as a valuable asset," while also projecting, "This transfer matter may continue until the end of August, and the final destination may not be France or Italy."
PSG is also reportedly reassessing Lee Kang-in's utilization amid the European Club World Cup and the new season schedule rather than an immediate release. However, the reality is challenging. The midfield that Coach Enrique favors is solid, and it seems unlikely that Lee Kang-in will receive consistent opportunities from the start of the season.
Lee Kang-in himself prioritizes growth through playing time above all else. Considering the competition for a starting position in the national team and preparations for the World Cup, transferring to a team that guarantees a clear starting role could be a more rational choice than remaining on the bench.
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