* Translated by AI

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PSG, having said goodbye to Lee Kang-in, confirms 'acquisition of Japanese national team goalkeeper'—but the deal terms are surprisingly modest... possibility of 'loan after contract signing'

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Park Geondo

*This content was translated by AI.

Japan national team goalkeeper Suzuki Zayon (left) and Lee Kang-in during their time at Paris Saint-Germain. /AFPBBNews=NEWS1
Japan national team goalkeeper Suzuki Zayon (left) and Lee Kang-in during their time at Paris Saint-Germain. /AFPBBNews=NEWS1

As Lee Kang-in moves to Atletico Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) is on the verge of signing Japanese national team key goalkeeper Suzuki Zayon (23, Parma). However, a somewhat unusual contract structure that could lead to an immediate loan after acquisition has come under scrutiny.

Sports outlet 'World Soccer Talk' reported on the 10th (Korea time) that "PSG is close to finalizing the signing of Japanese national team goalkeeper Suzuki, who delivered outstanding performances at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America." According to transfer market expert Fabrizio Romano, PSG and Parma are set to agree on a transfer fee of 35 million euros (approximately 57.3 billion won).

However, French outlet 'PSG Talk' also highlighted Suzuki's acquisition rumors on the 10th, pointing out that the club is pursuing an unusual and potentially risky move.

Suzuki Zayon (left) catching the ball in front of Vinicius Junior. /AFPBBNews=NEWS1
Suzuki Zayon (left) catching the ball in front of Vinicius Junior. /AFPBBNews=NEWS1

The outlet stated, "PSG has finally reached an agreement with Parma on a transfer fee worth 35 million euros, with a higher guaranteed amount ratio," but added, "However, acquiring first-team-level goalkeepers for three consecutive years—after losing Gianluigi Donnarumma and bringing in Lucca Chevalier and Matvey Safonov, now Suzuki as well—is an unusual situation for the club and could be a double-edged sword."

This somewhat unusual scenario arises due to the complex interplay of Chevalier's future plans and the chain transfer structure. Chevalier, who underperformed expectations last season, is currently receiving strong interest from Italian powerhouse Juventus.

According to local reports, if Chevalier moves to Juventus, Suzuki will remain at PSG immediately and compete directly with Safonov for the starting goalkeeper spot. Conversely, if Chevalier stays at PSG, an exceptional chain transfer scenario could unfold where Suzuki signs a contract with PSG and is then loaned to Juventus for one year.

Lee Kang-in shares his thoughts at a domestic fan event attended by legendary Spanish striker David Villa after completing matches in the 2026 Coupang Play Series against Manchester City and Atletico Madrid. /Photo=Senior reporter Kang Young-jo
Lee Kang-in shares his thoughts at a domestic fan event attended by legendary Spanish striker David Villa after completing matches in the 2026 Coupang Play Series against Manchester City and Atletico Madrid. /Photo=Senior reporter Kang Young-jo

In effect, a unique contract condition—acquisition followed immediately by a loan to another major club—has been placed on the negotiation table. 'PSG Talk' noted regarding Suzuki's current situation that "continuous goalkeeper acquisitions could undermine not only existing players but also other players the club is targeting, eroding trust in the club." The outlet added, "Just as PSG's level may have been too high for Chevalier, a similar phenomenon could occur with Suzuki."

Previously, Suzuki received attention from top European clubs after delivering spectacular saves in matches against the Netherlands and Brazil during the World Cup finals. At Serie A's Parma, he has consistently recorded dominant statistics, ranking second in long-pass success rate and second in aerial duel handling, demonstrating overwhelming ability in both build-up play and defensive capabilities.

According to foreign media including Japanese outlet 'Tokyo Sports', Parma initially demanded 40 million euros (approximately 65.4 billion won) as Suzuki's transfer fee. PSG eventually reached an agreement by resubmitting an offer totaling 35 million euros, which reduced the bonus portion and increased the guaranteed amount ratio.

Suzuki Zayon. /AFPBBNews=NEWS1
Suzuki Zayon. /AFPBBNews=NEWS1

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*This content was translated by AI.

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