Lee Kang-in Set to Join Atletico Madrid as PSG Exit Confirmed

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South Korean international Lee Kang-in is set to leave Paris Saint-Germain and join Atletico Madrid, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.

On Sunday, Romano confirmed the deal with his trademark "Here we go" announcement, a phrase widely recognized as his final confirmation that a transfer has reached its concluding stages. While the declaration is occasionally preceded by reports from other outlets, it typically signals that all major details have been agreed.

According to Romano, Atletico Madrid will pay a transfer fee of around €40 million. Personal terms between Lee and Atletico had reportedly been agreed several months ago, leaving only negotiations between the two clubs ahead of the summer transfer window. With the transfer fee now settled, the move is effectively complete, with only final formalities such as medical examinations and official paperwork remaining.

The transfer brings an end to Lee's three-year spell at Paris Saint-Germain.

Lee began his European journey at Valencia after moving to Spain as a child. He progressed through the club's academy to make his first-team debut but struggled to secure a regular role. In search of more opportunities, he joined Mallorca, where he flourished under head coach Javier Aguirre during his second season, establishing himself as one of La Liga's standout attacking midfielders.

His breakthrough came after he had already gained global recognition by winning the Golden Ball as the best player at the 2019 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Poland. His performances eventually earned him a move to PSG in the summer of 2023.

Although Lee was unable to cement himself as an undisputed starter in Paris, his spell at the French giants was far from unsuccessful. He helped the club win multiple domestic trophies, including a domestic treble in his second season, and was also part of back-to-back UEFA Champions League-winning squads. While often used as a key rotational player rather than a regular starter, Lee continued to develop, particularly in his defensive work rate and tactical discipline.

However, his limited involvement in the biggest matches remained a recurring source of frustration throughout his time at PSG. Several clubs expressed interest in signing the South Korean playmaker, with Atletico Madrid having monitored him for several years.

Atletico are expected to view Lee as a replacement for club legend Antoine Griezmann following the Frenchman's departure. While Lee will still need to earn his place in Diego Simeone's side, the opportunity for regular first-team football appears significantly greater than it was at PSG.