World Cup Star Lee Kang-in Linked to FC Barcelona Interest

South Korean football star Lee Kang-in is reportedly attracting the attention of Spanish giants FC Barcelona, according to recent reports from Spanish sports outlet Sport.

Deco, Barcelona's sporting director, is said to have met with Javi Garrido, the agent representing both Lee Kang-in and Valencia midfielder Javi Guerra. During this meeting, the situation of several players was discussed, with Lee Kang-in's status being a key topic. Sport reported that Deco is closely monitoring Lee's current circumstances.

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The situation of Lee Kang-in was also discussed in this meeting.

Lee Kang-in's market value has seen a significant increase, recently reaching 28 million euros (approximately $31 million USD), according to football statistics website Transfermarkt. This valuation makes him the highest-valued player in the South Korean national team, considerably exceeding that of captain Son Heung-min, whose market value stands at 17 million euros.

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Deco is constantly monitoring the current situation.

His impressive performances in the ongoing World Cup have further boosted his profile. Lee currently leads all participating players in pass rating with 85.9 points, based on data compiled by Gradient Sports after the group stage matches. In the match against Czechia, he contributed an assist, drew four fouls, and successfully completed five dribbles, showcasing his dynamic presence on the field.

However, Sport clarified that the meeting between Deco and Garrido was informal, aimed at sharing information about player situations rather than initiating concrete transfer negotiations. Barcelona's interest is currently at the stage of gathering information about Lee's status. Lee is expected to start as a winger in South Korea's next World Cup match against Mexico.

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This meeting was an informal exchange of information about the players' situations.