'Lee Kang-in is the only solution' — The reason behind what Atletico wants... Losing Felix and still unresolved 'creativity drought'

*This content was translated by AI.

Spanish club Atletico Madrid has a reason for pursuing Lee Kang-in (25, Paris Saint-Germain). The plan is to bring in Lee Kang-in to resolve the long-standing 'lack of creativity' that has remained unsolved for years.

On the 23rd (Korean time), Spanish outlet Futbol Espana, citing European transfer market expert Fabrizio Romano, reported that "Atletico Madrid is in advanced negotiations to sign Lee Kang-in from Paris Saint-Germain (PSG)."

The outlet further stated, "South Korean national team player Lee Kang-in has emerged as Atletico's true priority target in this summer's transfer window. This marks a significant shift in the previously stalled negotiations to sign Lee Kang-in. Most recently, in January, PSG completely blocked any possibility of a mid-season transfer."

According to the report, Atletico plans to restructure its squad this summer, with a particular focus on strengthening the midfield. Atletico director Mateu Alemany is targeting various types of midfielders, and Lee Kang-in is included on that list. The outlet analyzed the potential signing of Lee Kang-in, stating, "It demonstrates Atletico's continued efforts to address the lack of creativity in the midfield."

Lee Kang-in left Spanish club Mallorca in 2023 to join PSG. At PSG, he demonstrated versatility by playing in various positions. While there were concerns regarding his playing time and role, this was made possible precisely because of Lee Kang-in's 'multi-capability.' Futbol Espana also highly praised him, noting, "Technically outstanding, Lee Kang-in can fulfill both the advanced No. 8 and No. 10 roles. He possesses strong pressing ability, set-piece skills, and the capacity to unlock tight spaces."

Notably, the outlet highlighted that this is precisely the element Atletico has been seeking for a long time. Futbol Espana emphasized, "This is the missing piece after Joao Felix (Al Nassr) departed and Koke gradually lost influence in creative roles, which manager Diego Simeone failed to adequately replace."

In other words, the plan is to sign Lee Kang-in to resolve this issue. Futbol Espana stated, "The pursuit of Lee Kang-in is not a secondary option. Lee Kang-in is definitely part of Atletico's core acquisition group."

The outlet further added, "It is also worth noting where Lee Kang-in will be deployed. Rather than directly replacing a specific player, he is a resource to add creativity from the half-space. For manager Simeone, he can provide a dynamic option between the lines — something that has not been reliably secured since Felix's prime."

Lee Kang-in's La Liga experience is also a factor that Atletico cannot ignore. A product of Valencia's youth system, Lee Kang-in developed in Spain, proved his competitiveness in La Liga during his time at Mallorca, and then moved to PSG. If given proper opportunities, Lee Kang-in can quickly adapt to a new team. Atletico can also reduce the adaptation risks typically associated with signing players from other leagues.

However, the transfer fee remains a challenge to resolve. Futbol Espana, synthesizing reports from Spanish and French media, stated that "Atletico's initial proposal was around 25 million euros (approximately 43 billion won)." However, depending on the report, figures ranging from 35 million euros (approximately 60 billion won) to 40 million euros (approximately 70 billion won) have been mentioned.

PSG is also not in a position to easily back down. Lee Kang-in is still young, and his contract has time remaining. The outlet reported, "PSG also considered contract extension during the winter transfer window to block incoming clubs and protect the player's value."

However, the atmosphere appears to have changed compared to January. Futbol Espana analyzed, "At the time, PSG reportedly informed Atletico that 'there will be no negotiations now or in the near future.' The fact that the two clubs are now in advanced negotiations suggests either a change in PSG's squad plans or an improved offer from Atletico. It could be both."

The outlet also added, "However, since there have been no reports indicating that the valuation gap between the two clubs has narrowed, this remains an obstacle for now."

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*This content was translated by AI.