Atletico's Transfer Woes: Kang-in Lee Deal Collapses as PSG Slam Door Shut
Mateu Alemany faces rejection in pursuit of Kang-in Lee, with PSG unwilling to negotiate despite player's interest in reuniting with former Valencia boss.
Atletico Madrid’s transfer hopes take another blow as PSG refuse to entertain negotiations for South Korean star Kang-in Lee, despite the player’s apparent willingness to move.
”Hostile Market” Indeed
Mateu Alemany’s repeated warnings about a “difficult and hostile market” are proving spot on, ain’t they? The Atletico sporting director’s plans to strengthen the squad this January have hit the wall faster than a dodgy kebab after a night on the lash.
Despite Kang-in Lee seemingly being up for a reunion with the man who gave him his first pro contract at Valencia when he was just 17, PSG have slammed the door firmly shut. Luis Enrique still rates the South Korean highly and won’t sanction any mid-season departure.
Summer Dreams
The collapse of this deal doesn’t mean Atletico are giving up entirely. Lee remains a priority target for the summer window, though securing his signature won’t be straightforward then either:
- PSG are preparing a juicy contract renewal offer
- The player’s stance could change by summer
- Competition for his signature will likely intensify
Ederson: Another Mission Impossible
Kang-in Lee isn’t the only player Atletico can’t get their mitts on despite the player’s apparent interest. Atalanta’s Brazilian midfielder Ederson is also pushing for a move to the Metropolitano, but the Italian club have slapped a prohibitive €60 million price tag on him.
Despite Ederson reportedly being willing to wait 18 months and leave for free if necessary, Atalanta aren’t budging on their valuation.
Plan B: Joao Gomes Leading the Pack
With doors slamming in their faces, Atletico are increasingly focusing on Wolves’ Joao Gomes as their midfield reinforcement. This avenue appears more promising for several reasons:
- Wolves’ precarious Premier League position weakens their negotiating power
- Jorge Mendes’ involvement could grease the wheels
- The Brazilian’s profile - strong in recovery despite being more of an interior than a pure defensive mid - ticks Atletico’s boxes
Other options being considered include Barcelona’s Casadó and Valencia’s Javi Guerra, but the Wolves route currently looks the most promising in what Alemany aptly describes as a proper “hostile market”.