The Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) is making significant strides in its transfer strategy this summer, with a potential move for South Korean midfielder Lee Kang-In to Atlético Madrid reportedly nearing completion. The Spanish club, under the leadership of president Enrique Cerezo, has been vocal about its ambitions to strengthen its squad, with the 2024 FIFA World Cup champions positioning themselves as serious contenders for top talent.

Sources close to the negotiations indicate that Atlético Madrid is prepared to offer around €40 million, including bonuses, to secure the services of the 23-year-old international, widely seen as a long-term successor to club legend Antoine Griezmann. This potential deal follows PSG’s recent sale of forward Gonçalo Ramos to AC Milan for a reported €74 million, demonstrating the club’s willingness to reshuffle its squad and invest in emerging talent.

Atlético Madrid signals confidence in Lee Kang-In pursuit

Enrique Cerezo has acknowledged Atlético Madrid’s active recruitment efforts, though he remains cautious when addressing specific transfers. In a recent statement to local media, the president emphasized the club’s strong position heading into the new season: « We are working to bring in key players, and we’re succeeding. We have enough quality in our squad to field 10 or 12 players who could start in a World Cup final. We’re thrilled with our team—we are the world champions. » His remarks underscore the club’s confidence in both its current roster and future signings.

PSG’s next move: Akliouche set to fill the void

As PSG finalizes Lee Kang-In’s departure, French midfielder Maghnes Akliouche is reportedly on the verge of joining the club from AS Monaco. The deal, which hinges on Monaco’s need to offload the player and Akliouche’s desire to make the move to Paris, is expected to be finalized shortly after the FIFA World Cup. With the French national team set to face England in the third-place playoff, the timing couldn’t be more strategic. Once the tournament concludes, negotiations are poised to accelerate, paving the way for Akliouche to step into Lee Kang-In’s role at PSG.

By Mariama Hamani — Analyst