Lee Kang-in Joins Spanish Giants Atlético Madrid on 5-Year Deal
Translated from Korean, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- South Korean football star Lee Kang-in has transferred from Paris Saint-Germain to Spanish club Atlético Madrid.
- The 5-year contract with the La Liga powerhouse is reportedly worth up to 40 million euros, making it the second-highest transfer fee for a South Korean player.
- Lee is expected to become a key starter for Atlético Madrid, filling the void left by Antoine Griezmann's departure.
South Korean football sensation Lee Kang-in has officially joined Spanish La Liga giants Atlético Madrid, leaving Paris Saint-Germain after a three-season stint. The 5-year contract, announced by the club via social media with a "Welcome Lee Kang-in" post, marks a significant move for the 25-year-old midfielder.
Atlético Madrid, one of La Liga's 'Big Three' alongside FC Barcelona and Real Madrid, boasts an impressive history with 11 league titles. The club's stature is further highlighted by its significant representation in the recent World Cup final, where 10 players from the team participated. Lee's move to this prestigious club signifies his return to a league where he previously played for Valencia and Mallorca, accumulating 110 La Liga appearances and 9 goals.
Reports suggest Atlético Madrid paid up to 35 million euros, with an additional 5 million euros in potential add-ons, for Lee. This transfer fee ranks as the second-highest for a South Korean player, surpassing Son Heung-min's move to Tottenham Hotspur. Lee's arrival is anticipated to bolster Atlético's midfield, especially with the recent departure of key player Antoine Griezmann to Major League Soccer. His passing-oriented style is seen as a natural fit for La Liga.
Fans will have a chance to see Lee in action for Atlético Madrid when the team faces Manchester City in a friendly match in Seoul next month. This highly anticipated match is part of Atlético's preseason tour and offers a glimpse of the team's new dynamics with Lee integrated into the squad.
Originally published by Hankyoreh in Korean. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.