*This content was translated by AI.
With Lee Kang-in's (25, Paris Saint-Germain) transfer to Atletico (AT) Madrid now considered a done deal, local media anticipate he will join the team soon and begin pre-season training.
Spanish outlet Marca reported on the 14th (Korean time), "Atletico Madrid expects to announce Lee Kang-in's signing by the end of this week. It remains unclear whether he will arrive on Friday or next Monday, but aside from the official announcement, Atletico is fully prepared to welcome Lee Kang-in as a 'new Griezmann'."
Antoine Griezmann was a key striker for Atletico Madrid until last season before moving to Orlando City in the United States. Locals expect Lee Kang-in to take over Griezmann's number 7 jersey and follow in his footsteps.
Marca added, "Once Lee Kang-in joins, he will undergo standard medical tests and sign his contract on the first day. According to an agreement with PSG, the transfer fee is set at €35 million (approximately 59.7 billion won), with a contract running until 2031. The club's plan is for Lee Kang-in to participate almost fully in pre-season under manager Diego Simeone. Therefore, his arrival is not expected to be delayed beyond next Monday."
The media noted that while filling the void left by Griezmann will not be easy, there is still reason to have high expectations for Lee Kang-in.
"The club is well aware that replacing Griezmann is no small task. Nevertheless, Atletico Madrid believes Lee Kang-in can step into his role," Marca highlighted, adding, "Although Lee Kang-in did not receive many playing opportunities at Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), he is expected to shine at Atletico Madrid. There is also hope in Simeone's coaching ability, which helped develop Griezmann into a world-class striker and made him a Ballon d'Or contender."
The media also expressed optimism about the "Lee Kang-in effect" in Korea. They stated, "Korea's early exit from the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers for North America was actually a boost for Atletico Madrid. As a result, Lee Kang-in can now join the team from the start of pre-season. During August's tour in Korea, Lee Kang-in is expected to be the biggest draw. Already, news of his signing has significantly boosted jersey sales in Asian markets, and the excitement will only grow once the official announcement is made."
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*This content was translated by AI.
