*This content was translated by AI.
A new variable has emerged that could further fuel transfer rumors surrounding South Korean forward Lee Kang-in (25, Paris Saint-Germain). His current club, Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), has decided to temporarily halt contract renewal negotiations.
French outlet Foot Mercato reported on the 10th (Korean time) that "PSG achieved the remarkable feat of reaching the UEFA Champions League (UCL) final for the second consecutive year." The outlet added that "PSG has prioritized achieving its 'sporting goal (winning the title)' over resolving players' contract issues."
Previously, PSG, including Chairman Nasser Al-Khelaifi, Sporting Director Luis Campos, and Head Coach Luis Enrique, had held renewal talks with players whose contracts were nearing expiration. Lee Kang-in was among them. The media explained, "Players with contracts expiring in 2028 include Ballon d'Or winner Ousmane Dembélé, Bradley Barcola, and Lee Kang-in. Additionally, youth product Séni Maïkulou has only one year remaining on his contract and is receiving love calls from clubs across Europe, making his situation more urgent."
However, PSG decided to temporarily "stop" these negotiations to focus on the UCL title. Last season, PSG became the first club in its history to win the UCL and achieved the European treble (three major titles). This season, the luck of winning has continued. PSG is on the verge of securing a fifth consecutive league title and has reached the UCL final once again. If they defeat Arsenal (England) in the final on the 31st, they will achieve the monumental feat of back-to-back UCL titles.
According to reports, a PSG insider stated, "We have been negotiating for the past nine months and have exchanged proposals. After numerous discussions, we have finalized contracts for some players, including João Neves, Willian Pacho, Fabián Ruiz, and Lucas Beraldo. However, other players need time to think." The insider drew a line, adding, "As PSG enters a critical phase of the match schedule, we have decided not to proceed with further negotiations. Negotiations at this stage would only cause friction and provide no benefit."
However, it is true that PSG's decision has increased the transfer possibilities for some players, including Lee Kang-in. While PSG focuses on the UCL, other clubs seeking to sign players may approach them. The media noted, "While PSG's decision is understandable, it also carries risks. This period could provide opportunities for other clubs seeking star players. In particular, Bradley Barcola, who remains in the role of 'the 12th player' at PSG and is attracting interest from English clubs, is a prime example."
The same applies to Lee Kang-in. Since joining PSG, he has frequently been excluded from big matches, including the UCL. He missed both legs of the UCL quarterfinals against the "giant" Bayern Munich (Germany). He has long been classified as a rotation player. Consequently, transfer rumors about Lee Kang-in have persisted. He has been linked with English clubs such as Tottenham and Newcastle.
It remains to be seen what choice Lee Kang-in will make this summer. The media projected, "From the perspective of the agents for these players, this situation could work in their favor. If PSG wins the UCL title, the players' side could secure a more advantageous position in future renegotiations."
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*This content was translated by AI.
