Exclusive: Kang-in Lee Transfer Race Heats Up: Atlético Join Napoli and Premier Giants in Pursuit

FootBall-Asian.com sources reveal South Korean playmaker’s focus on development, not prestige – Moretto reports stalled talks amid Simeone’s revived interest.

Kang-in Lee is emerging as one of the most intriguing names in the upcoming summer transfer window. Contract renewal talks with Paris Saint-Germain have reportedly stalled, and a host of European clubs are now circling – with Atletico Madrid joining the chase once again.

Respected journalist Matteo Moretto of Relevo, known for his close ties to Atlético Madrid and his presence at key matches including PSG’s Champions League semi-final victory over Arsenal, reports that PSG have failed to make progress in securing Lee’s long-term future. Moretto even met Lee and his agent Javier Garrido after that win, adding weight to his insight.

"Las negociaciones para la renovación de Lee Kang-in con el Paris Saint-Germain están estancadas y el coreano puede convertirse en uno de los nombres del mercado estival.
Hay varios clubes muy atentos a su situación, aunque de momento ninguno ha concretado nada con el PSG.
Nápoles, equipos de la Premier, de España y Arabia están pendientes." @MatteMoretto

English translation of Matteo Moretto’s tweet:

“Talks over Lee Kang-in’s contract renewal with Paris Saint-Germain have stalled, and the Korean could become one of the standout names in the summer market. Several clubs are closely monitoring his situation, although none have made formal contact with PSG so far. Napoli, Premier League sides, Spanish and Saudi clubs are all keeping tabs.”

Meanwhile, FootBall-Asian.com understands that Lee is not driven by club stature or market hype. Instead, he seeks a club where he can grow technically and play regularly under a coach who values his skill set. He has no issues with PSG boss Luis Enrique and remains focused on ending the season on a high. Nevertheless, he has turned down a proposed renewal from PSG technical director Luis Campos despite having three years left on his deal.

Spanish interest resurfaces

In Spain, interest in Lee is being fuelled by a tactical need for a left-footed technician. Antoine Griezmann’s dip in form, the expected departure of Ángel Correa, and a broader rebuild at Atlético Madrid have prompted Diego Simeone to revisit his long-held admiration for the Korean playmaker. The Argentine boss was already keen on Lee during his 2023 move to Paris, and sources suggest Atlético could return with a formal offer this summer.

Napoli and the Premier League line up

Napoli remain a strong contender, buoyed by the pending announcement of Kevin De Bruyne’s signing. They see Lee as a crucial part of their new project. In the Premier League, Manchester United, Arsenal, Newcastle, Crystal Palace, Nottingham Forest and Aston Villa are all in the mix – each with different motivations, from tactical fit to squad restructuring.

Whether it’s Italy, England or Spain, one thing is clear: Kang-in Lee’s next move could shape the football landscape this summer.

Premier League: The Breakdown – Who Wants Kang-in Lee and Why?

While interest in Lee Kang-in is strong across Europe, it is perhaps in the Premier League where competition for his signature is most intense. Multiple clubs – each with their own tactical needs and transfer strategies – are actively monitoring the situation.

Manchester United

United's summer rebuild is expected to be significant, with as many as six midfielders and attackers facing uncertain futures. Bruno Fernandes, Christian Eriksen, Casemiro, Jadon Sancho, Antony and Marcus Rashford have all been linked with departures, while Alejandro Garnacho’s future remains under discussion following limited involvement in the Europa League final.

Although United are targeting more physical forwards like Liam Delap and Matheus Cunha, they view Lee as a potential creative lynchpin – someone who could link midfield to attack in a more technically fluid system. Should several of their current attacking players depart, a move for Lee could accelerate quickly.

Arsenal

Arsenal’s interest dates back to January, when internal discussions began around signing a creative midfielder who could operate centrally or from wide areas. With a strong Korean fanbase and corporate backing from major Asian sponsors, the Gunners are reportedly confident they can both meet Lee’s sporting and commercial expectations.

Mikel Arteta values versatility and ball retention under pressure – qualities Lee possesses in abundance. The club sees him as a valuable rotational option with the potential to eventually succeed Martin Ødegaard or complement him in dual playmaker systems.

Newcastle United

Newcastle have been admirers of Lee for some time – their interest reportedly stretching back as far as 2021. With their pre-season tour of South Korea now officially announced for early August, the Magpies are actively seeking a marquee Korean signing to boost local engagement and commercial synergy.

Eddie Howe is said to view Lee as a player who could slot in behind Alexander Isak or play wide in a midfield three. 

Crystal Palace

Palace’s surprise qualification for the Europa League has triggered a shift in transfer ambition. With star man Eberechi Eze attracting heavy interest and Adam Wharton linked with a move to a top-six club, Palace are bracing for midfield exits.

Oliver Glasner’s 3-4-2-1 system requires intelligent technicians in the half-spaces – and Lee would be a natural fit. The club is also keen to leverage their recent success into acquiring players with international appeal, and Lee ticks every box.

Nottingham Forest

While not traditionally in the frame for elite creative midfielders, Forest have been quietly building a team around high-technical output. With Morgan Gibbs-White a consistent target for larger clubs, Forest are preparing for his possible departure.

Lee would represent a direct stylistic replacement – albeit with more continental flair. Forest’s hierarchy also believes the South Korean could serve as a long-term centrepiece both on and off the pitch.

Aston Villa

Villa’s failure to qualify for the Champions League has prompted an internal reassessment. With Morgan Rogers reportedly attracting bids and uncertainty over the long-term future of Leon Bailey, Unai Emery is exploring creative reinforcements.

Lee’s ability to operate between lines, combined with his high tactical discipline, make him an appealing target for Emery’s possession-based approach. Villa also see Lee as a player who could thrive in the Europa League  as they aim to maintain European football momentum.