Darmstadt 98 and Chinese Clubs Eye Pohang Striker Lee Ho-jae

Pohang Steelers striker Lee Ho-jae could be set for a new challenge this summer, with clubs in both China and Germany monitoring his situation.

Chinese side Shenzhen Peng City(Shēnzhèn Xīn Péngchéng) and German Bundesliga 2 outfit Darmstadt 98 have been keeping tabs on Lee over recent months. While Darmstadt have sounded out the possibility of a deal with the player’s representatives, they have yet to submit a formal bid to Pohang Steelers.

Lee’s current contract with the K League 1 side includes a buyout clause specifically for overseas clubs. However, the clubs interested in Lee appear reluctant to trigger the clause in full.

Born in 2000, Lee Ho-jae rose through the youth ranks at Incheon United before joining Korea University and signing with Pohang Steelers in 2021. He made his debut that same year, featuring in 20 matches across all competitions, including the AFC Champions League, and scoring twice.

Lee established himself as a regular starter in the 2023 season, impressing with 12 goals and 2 assists in 47 appearances. In the current 2025 K League 1 campaign, he has already netted 8 goals and provided 1 assist in 16 matches, showcasing his return to form after a serious ankle injury sidelined him in August last year.

At 193 centimetres, Lee is known for his physicality and finishing ability, earning him comparisons to Norway’s Erling Haaland. He is also the son of Lee Ki-hyung, a former South Korea right-back and ex-Incheon United manager who now coaches Yanbian Longding in China.

Notably, Lee’s military service has been waived following surgery on his ankle ligaments, removing any barriers to a potential move abroad. However, despite interest from European, Chinese and Japanese clubs, no substantial offers have materialised so far, largely due to concerns over his injury history.

With the summer transfer window now open, Lee’s future could become clearer in the coming weeks.