Napoli Plot Double Asian Raid: Kang-in Lee and Zion Suzuki on the Radar as Serie A Giants Eye Summer Reinforcements

2025-06-08     Han, June
Kang-in Lee and Zion Suzuki

 

Napoli are preparing an ambitious summer transfer window, with exclusive reports from Napoli Network revealing that the Serie A champion are plotting a double swoop for Asia’s brightest talents: South Korea’s Kang-in Lee and Japan’s Zion Suzuki. Both deals, while complex, could signal the club’s intent to strengthen their squad ahead of Antonio Conte’s second season in charge.

Kang-in Lee: The Creative Spark

According to Napoli Network, Napoli are determined to bring Kang-in Lee to the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona to boost their creative options for next season’s Champions League campaign. The 23-year-old attacking midfielder currently plies his trade at Paris Saint-Germain, where he has a contract until 2027.

Sources suggest Napoli are optimistic about reaching an agreement with PSG, with a total fee estimated between €30 million and €35 million, including potential bonuses. The player’s annual salary at PSG is reportedly €4 million net, but Napoli’s proposed offer could exceed that figure, sweetening the deal for both parties.

However, the sticking point remains Lee’s own reluctance. The Korean star appears to be taking his time to consider the move, despite his agent’s enthusiasm for the transfer. Napoli see Lee not only as a footballing asset but also as a marketing powerhouse, given his immense popularity across Asia—PSG’s Asian merchandise sales reportedly show a staggering 70% preference for Lee’s name.

Conte, however, is reportedly hesitant about the move. According to the Italian outlet, the Italian tactician would prefer Napoli to invest the funds in a more Serie A–ready winger, citing concerns over Lee’s defensive contribution and adaptability to the league’s physical demands. Nonetheless, Lee’s versatility across the attacking midfield and wing positions continues to make him a highly attractive target.

SAITAMA, JAPAN - MARCH 25: Zion Suzuki of Japan applauds supporters after the FIFA World Cup qualifier Asian third round Group C match between Japan and Saudi Arabia at Saitama Stadium on March 25, 2025 in Saitama, Japan. (Photo by Kenta Harada/Getty Images)

 

Zion Suzuki: The Goalkeeping Gem

Meanwhile, Corriere dello Sport reports that Napoli’s interest in Japanese goalkeeper Zion Suzuki is also gathering momentum. Suzuki, who joined Parma from Sint-Truiden last summer, has had a standout season in Serie A, making 37 appearances and playing a crucial role in Parma’s survival campaign.

At just 22, Suzuki has already shown his potential to shine on the biggest stage, keeping a clean sheet against champions Napoli on matchday 37 and earning Player of the Match honours. According to Corriere dello Sport, Napoli’s sporting director Giovanni Manna met with Parma CEO Federico Cherubini on 4 June to discuss multiple players, including Suzuki and Parma’s promising striker Ange-Yoan Bonny.

The Italian newspaper describes Suzuki as “a promising goalkeeper—brave and explosive, though still a little raw.” With Napoli’s current number one, Alex Meret, in talks over a two-year contract extension, Suzuki’s arrival would add competition and depth between the posts.

Parma have acknowledged the interest, with Cherubini telling local media that while some departures are inevitable, it would still be an honour for Parma to see their talents move to bigger clubs.

Final Thoughts

While both moves remain at an exploratory stage, Napoli’s pursuit of Kang-in Lee and Zion Suzuki underscores their commitment to refreshing the squad under Conte. With the Champions League beckoning and domestic rivals strengthening, a double swoop for two of Asia’s most exciting prospects could represent a bold statement of intent. Whether Napoli can convince both players to make the move—and meet their clubs’ financial demands—remains the key question as the transfer window gathers pace.