* Translated by AI

Starnews

"Lee Kang-in has firmly decided to transfer"; Transfer fee details emerging, increasing likelihood of move to Atletico Madrid

Published:

Kim Myeongseok

*This content was translated by AI.

Composite image of Lee Kang-in in an Atletico Madrid jersey while at Paris Saint-Germain (PSG). /Photo=365Scores SNS capture
Composite image of Lee Kang-in in an Atletico Madrid jersey while at Paris Saint-Germain (PSG). /Photo=365Scores SNS capture

Spanish local reports indicate that Lee Kang-in (25) has firmly decided to leave Paris Saint-Germain (PSG). Atletico Madrid (AT) is the most likely destination, and the approximate transfer fee has already been outlined.

Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo reported on the 22nd (Korean time) that "Lee Kang-in has already decided to leave PSG" and added that "he is dissatisfied with his position after being relegated to a mere substitute option under coach Luis Enrique."

The outlet stated, "Lee Kang-in did not start a single match in the UEFA Champions League (UCL) this season and played not even one minute in the final." It further added that "Atletico Madrid will first reach an agreement on contract terms with the player's side before negotiating with PSG, and then proceed to discuss the transfer fee with PSG."

In reality, Lee Kang-in was benched for four consecutive matches, from the second leg of the UCL Round of 16 when the team reached the summit, through the semi-finals (first and second legs), and the final, placing him far from a key role. He did appear in 27 Ligue 1 matches, but only started 18 of them. As his role sharply diminished, speculation about a transfer intensified.

Paris Saint-Germain's Lee Kang-in. /AFPBBNews=NEWS1
Paris Saint-Germain's Lee Kang-in. /AFPBBNews=NEWS1

Additionally, local reports indicate that PSG itself is seeking to part ways with Lee Kang-in and several other players. This has increased the likelihood of a move to Atletico Madrid, which has consistently shown interest in acquiring Lee Kang-in, including during last winter's transfer window.

Mundo Deportivo also speculated on the approximate transfer fee. Atletico Madrid is reportedly seeking a fee of 25 million euros (approximately 44 billion won), while PSG is expected to demand at least 35 million euros (approximately 61.6 billion won). The outlet added, "The gap is significant but not insurmountable. Moreover, the summer transfer window has not even opened yet."

Lee Kang-in's decision to leave PSG is positive from Atletico Madrid's perspective, but the outlet also noted that his strong performances in the 2026 North American World Cup could become a source of concern, as it could further increase his market value. Mundo Deportivo expressed hope that "despite this, the friendly relationship between PSG and Atletico Madrid clubs, along with the player's own desire to transfer, could help facilitate the deal."

The 2026 North American World Cup Group A qualifier between South Korea and Mexico was held on the 19th (Korean time) at Estadio Akron in Guadalajara, Mexico. Lee Kang-in is seen evading the Mexican defense and attempting a breakthrough forward. /Photo=Chief correspondent Kim Jin-kyung
The 2026 North American World Cup Group A qualifier between South Korea and Mexico was held on the 19th (Korean time) at Estadio Akron in Guadalajara, Mexico. Lee Kang-in is seen evading the Mexican defense and attempting a breakthrough forward. /Photo=Chief correspondent Kim Jin-kyung

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*This content was translated by AI.

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