The deadline for the European football winter transfer window is approaching. Lee Kang-in (22, Mallorca), who was the subject of interest, remains in Mallorca. This is a disappointing result considering the various interests directed at Lee Kang-in this winter.
The deadline for the winter transfer market in the Spanish Primera Liga, which opened on the 2nd, is 8:00 am (Korean time) on February 1st. The English Premier League (EPL), which boasts the largest market in European football, is also the same as the Primera Liga.
From Lee Kang-in’s point of view, it is regrettable that the transfer market will soon close.
Lee Kang-in, who played an active role as Mallorca’s main player this season and performed brilliantly at the World Cup in Qatar last November, received interest from multiple European clubs.
After the World Cup, he was linked with EPL’s Newcastle and Aston Villa. However, the teams failed because they recruited another player instead of Lee Kang-in.
Then, at the end of the transfer market, Lee Kang-in’s name was mentioned once more.
According to Spain’s Marca, Primera Liga powerhouse Atlético Madrid sent their intention to bring Lee Kang-in to Mallorca. Also, I heard that one of the EPL’s big 6 teams also wants Lee Kang-in.
The ‘Big 6’ of the EPL are the strong teams that have been consistently at the top of the league recently, including Manchester City, Manchester United, Arsenal, Liverpool, Chelsea and Tottenham. From Lee Kang-in’s point of view, it is bound to be a tempting proposal.
Mallorca, which was promoted to the Primera Liga last season, is focusing on staying this season following succeeding in staying. Accordingly, following counterattacking following the player’s defense, the game is being solved with one shot through the cross.
Naturally, Lee Kang-in’s role is bound to be limited. If he plays for a strong team, Lee Kang-in can expect more roles in the offense with his strong penetrating pass and left-footed kick.
However, Mallorca plans to be with Lee Kang-in this season. Lee Kang-in, who has Mallorca’s strength and tactically accurate left foot, is a great help to the team. Lee Kang-in has 2 goals and 4 assists this season, and he contributes a lot to his team invisibly.
Mallorca coach Javier Aguirre also said, “Lee Kang-in is a really important player. Early in the season, he was the team’s mainstay, scoring and assisting. I’ve said it over and over once more, but Lee Kang-in plays an important role in the team,” he said, officially mentioning Lee Kang-in’s weight in the team.
Lee Kang-in’s buyout (minimum amount allowed for transfer) is known to be 17 million euros (approximately 23 billion won). It is not a burdensome amount for EPL clubs that boast enormous financial power. However, since there are less than 24 hours left until the transfer market closes, the possibility of Lee Kang-in’s transfer is slim.
From Lee Kang-in’s point of view, he must seek a new challenge through the summer transfer market. As trust is high within the team, if Lee Kang-in demonstrates his skills properly during the given playing time for the rest of the season, Lee Kang-in’s popularity is not expected to cool down even in the summer.
(Seoul = News 1)