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Analysis
- 26 minutes ago
World Cup's 100% star is up for sale - and Arsenal should take advantage
Updated: 12 Jun 2026 17:09 BST |
6 min read
News
Arsenal might be Premier League champions, but manager Mikel Arteta approaches the summer with the ambition of making his side even stronger.
The Spaniard, working in conjunction with sporting director Andrea Berta on new arrivals, have several clear tracks established.
Firstly, the Gunners want to strengthen their attack. Aston Villa’s Morgan Rogers is their principal target, while The Athletic has detailed that they have the likes of PSG’s Bradley Barcola, Eli Junior Kroupi of Bournemouth and Ajax’s Mika Godts in their sights. Rumours of a move for Nico Williams have also resurfaced.
And the defence will also be bolstered. A new full-back on either side of the rearguard is targeted.
But there is a quietly emerging option that it would be remiss for Arsenal to overlook: PSG’s Lee Kang-In.
Current ETV
Kang-in Lee
F (R), M (C)
PSG
Kang-in Lee
F (R), M (C)
PSG
ETV Range
€27.7M - €33.8M
Lee Kang-In vs Czech Republic: A stunning World Cup introduction
The South Korea international gave a demonstration of his talents in the Asian side’s opening World Cup clash against the Czech Republic. Operating behind Son Heung-Min as one of two No.10s, he delivered close to a perfect match.
He completed a perfect 38 passes from 38 attempts, including three key passes and an assist, was successful with five of his six dribbles and fought 14 duels, winning 10 of these. He drew a match-high four fouls in the process.
It was a staggering display, yet not one unexpected from a player who was outlined as one to watch at the World Cup.
Time to leave PSG
Lee’s performance was exceptional, but PSG have grown used to the South Korean displaying such levels of quality. Unfortunately for the versatile midfielder, he finds himself blocked all over the team by exceptional players, rendering him a Swiss Army knife of a player when Luis Enrique needs to plug a gap.
This has resulted in a lack of game time that is set to see the 25-year-old former Valencia star and PSG come to a mutual parting.
“There are players who are reaching the end of their cycle, exhausted, who want to leave, whom the club will not retain. I am thinking in particular of Goncalo Ramos, I am thinking of Lee Kang-In,” transfer expert Fabrice Hawkins told RMC (via Le10Sport).
Atletico Madrid have spent the last six months linked with the Korean star, eager to bring him back to La Liga.
But Arsenal can offer him an alternative where he could be even more successful.
A strong fit for Arsenal
Lee would fit in at Arsenal excellently, the analysis of SciSports shows.
The data analytics firm calculates the suitability of a buying club using its Career Advice tool, which supplies each team with a Club Fit score based on a wide variety of metrics, including potential development, game time, playing style and formation.
Whether Arteta wishes to use him as a winger or a central midfielder, the score comes up positive for Arsenal. In central midfield, the Gunners get a Club Fit score of 78 while this drops marginally to 77 based on him playing on the right wing.
Another serious attractive part of this potential deal is the price. Lee will be available at just €25 million, Mundo Deportivo reports. Given his Estimated Transfer Value (ETV) sits at €30.7m, this is an excellent price, and one PSG are willing to let the player leave at as a mark of respect to the professionalism he has shown during his three years in Paris.
Conclusion: Four reasons why Arsenal should sign Lee Kang-in
Lee is a smart signing for four crucial reasons.
Most importantly, he is a player of excellent quality, which was amply on display as he impressed for South Korea at the World Cup. His work rate and discipline, two pillars of Arteta’s system, are not up for dispute, while his technical level is also strong.
His ability to cover multiple positions is something that the Arsenal manager loves in signings. In particular, he can offer an extra option in the midfield and would bring greater tactical flexibility for the Emirates side thanks to his ability to operate as a mobile No.10.
Mentally, he is a strong professional, capable of sacrificing himself for others. Equally, though, he would arrive at Arsenal hungry for a new challenge and a chance to prove himself in the Premier League. It is a potent combination.
Finally, the €25m fee that PSG are requesting verges on a bargain. Even if this deal did not work, the risk is minimal, with the odds being that Arsenal would at least get their money back.
Lee has shone in the Champions League and on the World Cup stage; now the Gunners can cut him free to star in the Premier League.
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