South Korea Star Lee Kang-In Joins Atletico Madrid From PSG
Atletico Madrid have completed the signing of South Korean star Lee Kang-In from Paris Saint-Germain on a five-year deal until June 2031, with a transfer fee reportedly between €35-40 million. The 25-year-old attacking midfielder, a two-time Champions League winner with PSG, returns to La Liga to bolster Atletico's squad and will wear the.
Atletico Madrid have officially announced the blockbuster acquisition of South Korean sensation Lee Kang-In, who joins the Spanish giants from Paris Saint-Germain on a permanent transfer. The highly-rated attacking midfielder has penned a five-year deal, committing his future to Los Rojiblancos until June 30, 2031. The move, finalised on Friday, July 25, 2026, sees Lee return to La Liga, where he began his European career, after a hugely successful stint in France. Mohamed Salah Nears Besiktas Move Following Liverpool Exit
Lee Kang-In Joins Atletico Madrid
The transfer fee for the 25-year-old is reported to be in the region of €35 million, potentially rising to €40 million with add-ons. Lee Kang-In will inherit the iconic number 7 jersey at the Civitas Metropolitano, a testament to the high expectations placed on him by the club.
Lee Kang-In's Illustrious Career Journey
Born on February 19, 2001, in Incheon, South Korea, Lee Kang-In's football journey in Europe began at Valencia's youth academy when he was just 10 years old. He made his senior debut for Valencia at 17 in 2018, before moving to fellow La Liga side Mallorca in 2021. His impressive performances for Mallorca earned him a move to French heavyweights Paris Saint-Germain in July 2023.
During his three seasons at PSG, Lee Kang-In amassed an impressive trophy haul, including three Ligue 1 titles, two Coupes de France, and notably, back-to-back UEFA Champions League titles in 2025 and 2026. He also secured a UEFA Super Cup and an Intercontinental Cup with the Parisian club. Across 124 appearances for PSG, he contributed 16 goals and 16 assists. FC Barcelona Unveils Kobe Bryant-Inspired 2026-27 Season Away Kit.
Impact at Atletico Madrid
Lee Kang-In's arrival marks Atletico Madrid's major summer acquisition for 2026. The versatile left-footed midfielder, capable of operating in attacking midfield or on either wing, is expected to bring creativity, vision, and exquisite ball control to Diego Simeone's squad.
His signing is particularly significant as he is anticipated to fill the creative void left by club legend Antoine Griezmann, who recently departed for MLS. 40-Year-Old Luka Modric Seals AC Milan Contract Extension Until 2027.
International Pedigree
A pivotal figure for the South Korea national team, Lee Kang-In has earned 50 caps since his senior debut in 2019. He recently featured in all three group-stage matches for South Korea at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. His international accolades also include leading South Korea to a runner-up finish at the 2019 FIFA U-20 World Cup, where he was awarded the Golden Ball as the tournament's best player, and a gold medal at the 2022 Asian Games (held in 2023).
Atletico Madrid's strategic move to secure Lee Kang-In highlights their ambition for the upcoming season, bringing in a proven winner with significant European and international experience. Fans will eagerly anticipate his debut as he embarks on this new chapter in his career.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 25, 2026 08:33 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).