Andrea Compagno attracting European attention, but Jeonbuk set firm stance amid Rayo Vallecano interest

Andrea Compagno, the powerful Italian striker currently leading the line for Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors, has emerged as a transfer target for several clubs across Asia and Europe — most notably La Liga side Rayo Vallecano. However, the K League giants are reportedly reluctant to part ways with one of their most influential players unless a significant offer is made.

According to a report by Romanian outlet DigiSport, Rayo Vallecano have entered into negotiations with Jeonbuk over a potential summer move for Compagno, who previously impressed with FCSB in Romania and also had a stint in the Chinese Super League with Tianjin Teda. Jeonbuk are said to have quoted a transfer fee of €6 million, a figure that would represent a major return on their initial outlay of just €120,000, when they signed him from Asia last year.

Despite the Spanish club not backing down from the financial demands, Jeonbuk’s leadership has requested an additional week to consider their decision. Sources within the club suggest the Korean side is cautious about losing a key contributor as they mount a serious push for the K League title this season and lay foundations for a bold future both domestically and in Asia.

High demand across three continents

Compagno’s name has not only surfaced on Rayo Vallecano’s shortlist, but clubs from the United Arab Emirates and Japan’s J1 League are also closely monitoring the striker’s availability. However, Football-Asian.com understands that unless one of the interested parties meets Jeonbuk's full asking price, the Korean club are expected to reject all approaches and retain the 28-year-old for the remainder of the campaign.

The forward has proven his worth at every stop. During his time at FCSB, he scored 20 goals in 55 appearances, becoming a fan favourite despite being sold for a relatively modest sum. His rise continued in Asia, where he quickly adapted to both the Chinese and Korean leagues.

Culture shock in China — and fanfare farewell

In an earlier interview with Gazzetta dello Sport, Compagno reflected on his time in China with Tianjin Teda, where he was taken aback by the cultural contrasts — especially the presence of robotic hotel staff.

“The weirdest thing I saw in China happened on one of my first days there. I was in the hotel and called the elevator. When the doors opened, I found a small robot greeting me before delivering food to a room. I was shocked,” he said.

Despite the cultural surprises, Compagno was touched by the passionate support of Chinese fans.

“Our stadium, which holds 28,500 people, was often full. Never fewer than 20,000 fans. It was incredible. Every day, fans waited for us at the hotel or the training ground — with gifts, letters, everything. On my final match, the club and supporters played ‘Sarà perché ti amo’ by Ricchi e Poveri at the stadium. I usually focus fully on the warm-up, but that day I was very emotional.”

Jeonbuk not rushing decision

Jeonbuk Hyundai are currently top contenders in the K League and are unlikely to compromise their ambitions by selling one of their top performers unless the deal aligns perfectly with their sporting and financial expectations.

With the summer window heating up, the ball may now be in Rayo Vallecano’s court. Whether they meet Jeonbuk’s valuation or explore other options remains to be seen. But for now, Andrea Compagno looks set to stay in Korea — unless a club is prepared to go all in for the Italian target man.