The possibility of Lee Kang-in (23, Paris Saint-Germain) transferring is becoming more of a reality. With 'opportunity disappearance' holding him back rather than performance issues, multiple clubs from Europe and the Middle East have entered the serious transfer race.
Lee Kang-in did not participate in the final match of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup held at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA, on the 14th. His team PSG suffered a 0-3 defeat to Chelsea, led by the outstanding performance of Cole Palmer. Despite the heavy loss, manager Luis Enrique ultimately did not call upon Lee Kang-in.
In effect, Lee Kang-in has been pushed out from PSG's 'core resources'. Among strong attacking talents like Desiré Doué, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Bradley Barcola, and Ousmane Dembélé, Lee's name has become hard to even see on the player roster. In the midfield, with Vitinha and João Neves solidifying their positions, Lee's utility has sharply declined.
The exclusion from the final match was not a simple choice. Even within PSG, there are considerations about the possibility of Lee's departure.
PSG Inside Action said, "Lee Kang-in and Lucas Hernández are strong candidates to leave PSG this summer," adding, "The possibility of Lee's transfer is very high, and teams from Napoli, Manchester United, and Saudi Arabia have shown interest."
Napoli is actively pursuing Lee Kang-in. They have already made several attempts to contact him, and recently it has been reported that they can accept the transfer fee requested by PSG. In particular, Napoli has reportedly placed Lee as a top target to strengthen their midfield.
The scenario of a move to the Premier League is also valid. Manchester United has brought in Matheus Cunha to strengthen their attacking line and is also targeting Bryan Mbeumo. They are reportedly considering adding Lee Kang-in to their plans. Currently, Manchester United is undergoing a generational change and team rebuilding process, and Lee is a 'multi-position card' who can play not only on the wings but also as a central playmaker.
Teams from Saudi Arabia have also prepared to jump into the race for Lee Kang-in, offering high salaries. Due to the league's characteristics of higher tactical freedom compared to Europe, it is analyzed that this could be a realistic alternative for Lee, who values playing opportunities.
Lee Kang-in left Mallorca in Spain for PSG in 2023. The contract runs until June 2028, so there is still plenty of time left, but faced with the reality of a lack of playing opportunities, a transfer is flowing into a 'necessity' rather than an option. While there was expectation within the team at the beginning of the season, his playing time has sharply decreased in the second half, and the trend of not being utilized has continued throughout the season.
What Lee Kang-in needs most ahead of the 2026 North and Central America World Cup is consistent match experience. Staying in a team without opportunities is less important than playing as a starter in a new environment. Now that a farewell to PSG is imminent, whether it be a move to Napoli, a jump to the Premier League, or a new challenge, it is time for Lee to make a decision.
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