The reason behind the 18 billion won investment in Lee Han-beom: GK is world-class, but center-backs are in 'emergency'... A savior-like signing for Club Brugge

*This content was translated by AI.

This is a welcome addition akin to rain in a drought for the Belgian powerhouse Club Brugge. South Korean national team center-back Lee Han-beom, 24, is expected to don the Club Brugge jersey.

Belgian media outlet Voetbal International reported on the 1st (Korean time) that "Lee Han-beom has passed Club Brugge's medical test." The outlet added, "Club Brugge has effectively secured another new player this summer. South Korean central defender Lee Han-beom has successfully completed his medical examination; only an official announcement remains."

According to reports, Lee Han-beom is set to sign a two- or three-year contract with Club Brugge. His annual salary is reported to be in the range of 1.5 million to 2 million euros (approximately 2.5 billion to 3.3 billion won). The media explained that this amount is about five times his current salary at his former club, Midtjylland.

The transfer fee is also substantial. Voetbal International stated that "Club Brugge will pay a base transfer fee of 9 million euros (approximately 15 billion won), with an additional 1.5 million euros (approximately 2.5 billion won) possible if bonus conditions are met." The total package could reach up to 10.5 million euros (approximately 17.5 billion won).

Midtjylland is also reported to have secured a sell-on clause, entitling them to 15% of any future transfer fee should Lee Han-beom move to another club later.

Considering that Lee Han-beom's contract with Midtjylland has only one year remaining, this represents an even bolder investment. Originally from FC Seoul in the K League 1, Lee Han-beom joined European football after signing a four-year deal with Midtjylland in August 2023.

Although he faced challenges competing for a starting spot early on, he steadily increased his playing time and proved his value. He has grown into a key defender for Midtjylland and also secured a regular position in the South Korean national team.

Lee Han-beom was also part of the squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America. Alongside Kim Min-jae (Bayern Munich) and Lee Ki-hyuk (Wonju FC), he started all three group stage matches, forming a back three. In particular, he received high praise for his stable defensive performance in the first group match against Czechia.

After the World Cup, he was involved in various transfer rumors. Reports suggested interest from English Premier League side Leeds United, but Club Brugge has emerged as the most likely suitor to win the race for his signature.

The outlook for Lee Han-beom's competition for a starting spot at Club Brugge is not bleak. The club has made reinforcing its central defense its top priority due to a shortage of center-back resources.

Voetbal International explained, "Club Brugge has made significant progress in strengthening its defensive line through the signing of Lee Han-beom." The outlet added, "The squad's depth at center-back is thin, and Joel Ordóñez's departure is also highly likely. Acquiring a new central defender was an absolute priority for the Belgian champion Club Brugge."

Club Brugge's investment of up to 10.5 million euros in Lee Han-beom, whose contract has only a short time remaining, can be interpreted as evaluating him not merely as a backup but as an immediate asset. For Lee Han-beom, this move offers the opportunity to immediately engage in serious competition for a starting position upon transfer.

If Lee Han-beom joins Club Brugge, he will also be working alongside world-class goalkeeper Yann Sommer. Sommer, who has played for Bayern Munich and Inter Milan, joined Club Brugge this summer.

The media reported that "Lee Han-beom could become Club Brugge's new summer signing following Yann Sommer, Cheyev Chava, and Andrej Vasovic." If Lee Han-beom wins the competition for a starting spot, he will play as a central defender protecting Sommer.

Founded in 1891, Club Brugge topped the Belgian First Division in the 2025-2026 season to claim their 20th overall title. This record ranks second all-time in the Belgian league for most championships won.

The club has also won the Belgian Cup 12 times and the Belgian Super Cup 18 times, holding the all-time record for most titles in both competitions. They have also secured a spot in the 2026-2027 UEFA Champions League (UCL). If Lee Han-beom survives the competition for a starting position, he could even face top European players on this "stage of stars."

<© STARNEWS. All rights reserved. No reproduction or redistribution allowed.>

*This content was translated by AI.