Shock: "They were about to secure Lee Kang-in, but now he's being taken away" — Juventus prepares for a massive €52.5 billion 'hostage situation' as Atletico Madrid joins the race

*This content was translated by AI.

Lee Kang-in (25) has emerged as a top alternative for Serie A powerhouse Juventus, becoming the central figure in an intense bidding war. Atletico Madrid has also entered the fray, setting the stage for fierce competition between two elite clubs.

Italian outlet 'CalcioMercato' reported on the 3rd (Korean time) that "if Juventus fails to secure a contract with Brahim Diaz, they will turn to Lee Kang-in as a realistic 'Plan B'."

According to media reports, Juventus manager Luciano Spalletti initially targeted Brahim Diaz as his top priority to strengthen the entire attacking line alongside a central striker to replace Doosan Vlahovic. However, with Diaz recently deciding to stay at Real Madrid despite earlier openness to returning to Serie A, Juventus now faces the need to find a new option.

In response, Juventus has turned its attention to Lee Kang-in. The media stated: "Lee Kang-in made only 18 starts in official matches during the 2025–2026 season. PSG is also prepared to allow his transfer this summer if a suitable offer arrives. Since Juventus is already in discussions with PSG regarding the acquisition of central striker Randall Kolo Muani, there is room for smooth negotiations over Lee Kang-in as well."

Financial terms are also said to be within Juventus's capacity. The media explained: "Lee Kang-in is under contract with PSG until the summer of 2028, with an annual salary reportedly around €4 million (approximately ₩7 billion). Previously, in 2023, PSG paid a transfer fee of €22 million (about ₩38.8 billion) to acquire Lee Kang-in from Mallorca."

However, for Juventus to secure Lee Kang-in, they must first overcome Spain's powerhouse Atletico Madrid. It is reported that Atletico has already reached a preliminary personal agreement with Lee Kang-in's side. Notably, Atletico identified Lee Kang-in as the ideal replacement to fill the void left by Antoine Griezmann, who departed for Major League Soccer (MLS) in the United States last March.

According to Spain's 'Marca', Atletico has finalized an agreement involving a base transfer fee of €30 million (approximately ₩52.5 billion), plus bonuses, and plans to officially announce Lee Kang-in's acquisition within this week. With the South Korean national team eliminated from the 2026 North American World Cup group stage, Lee Kang-in's transfer is accelerating further. Juventus will need to act swiftly if it hopes to successfully hijack the deal.

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*This content was translated by AI.