The next destination of Lee Kang-in (22, Paris Saint-Germain) is becoming an increasingly hot issue.
French soccer reporter Romain Collet-Gaudin noted on the 3rd (Korea time) that "Napoli remains attractive to Lee Kang-in, and their determination to bring him in is strong," emphasizing that Napoli's interest in Lee Kang-in is heating up once again. Lee Kang-in's current contract with Paris Saint-Germain runs until 2025, and it is a crucial time for him to make a decision about his future as he faces a similar situation during the season.
Crystal Palace of the Premier League has been actively trying to recruit Lee Kang-in, reigniting Napoli's interest. Crystal Palace, which has reached out to Lee Kang-in, has made an attractive offer, but Napoli cannot afford to miss out on him and is once again committing to a "final move" for him.
Crystal Palace has already offered 30 million euros for Lee Kang-in, expressing a strong intention to bring him to London. Notably, they are trying to sway Lee Kang-in's heart by offering "guaranteed playtime" and the opportunity to take on a key role in the team. From Crystal Palace's perspective, the chance to recruit a talent like Lee Kang-in is not easy.
Napoli has tried to recruit Lee Kang-in several times recently but has failed due to rejection from Paris Saint-Germain. They must negotiate with Paris Saint-Germain, which is demanding a transfer fee of over 30 million euros again this time. Nevertheless, based on their tactical depth as Serie A champions last season and the opportunity to lead the team, Napoli is assessed as the team that offers Lee Kang-in the greatest opportunities.
Based on their experience of developing Kim Min-jae into Europe’s top center-back, Napoli is a team that can also help Lee Kang-in grow into one of the best midfielders in Serie A. Coach Antonio Conte is confident that he has the potential to grow into a central figure in the team's tactics, not just a "joker."
This will be an important factor as Lee Kang-in faces greater challenges and competitions ahead of the upcoming World Cup. In fact, since the appointment of Coach Antonio Conte, Napoli has consistently scouted Lee Kang-in. They have already made contact with him during the summer transfer market of 2024 and the winter transfer market of 2025.
The interest Napoli has in Lee Kang-in is serious. They began pursuing him immediately after the start of the summer transfer market, right after recruiting Kevin De Bruyne. However, as Paris Saint-Germain demanded too high a transfer fee, they have turned to alternatives like Noah Lang.
Ultimately, Lee Kang-in's choice will not just be a simple transfer; it will be a significant moment that determines the direction of his career. Crystal Palace can promise him immediate playing opportunities, but Napoli can provide a team that guarantees his future and offers even greater challenges. Now, it is in Lee Kang-in's hands.
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