Key Takeaways:
- Atletico Madrid have been seeking both a central midfielder and a creative playmaker during the January transfer window
- PSG have dismissed Atletico’s approach for Kang-In Lee after manager Luis Enrique refused to sanction a midseason exit
- Negotiations for Kang-In Lee could resume in the summer, with PSG intending to table a new contract offer
Atletico’s Ambitious January Transfer Plans Hit a Roadblock
Atletico Madrid have been racing against time to bolster their squad this January, focusing efforts on signing a central midfielder and a playmaker to fill the void left by Conor Gallagher and Giacomo Raspadori. Sporting Director Mateu Alemany has reportedly identified several midfield targets, including Marc Casado, Ederson dos Santos, and most importantly Joao Gomes, as Los Colchoneros seek to close deals imminently. Publicly discussed prospects for an attacking reinforcement have been fewer in number.
🚨🇰🇷 JUST IN: Kang-in Lee is convinced about leaving PSG for Atlético Madrid.
Alemany will fight for him, even if it's a loan. The goal is to sign him at all costs.
Atleti see him as a clear sporting upgrade and also as a major boost to their global brand expansion.@marca pic.twitter.com/iDdJQHv9V2
— Atletico Universe (@atletiuniverse) January 20, 2026
Kang-In Lee Pursuit Halted by Paris Saint-Germain
Paris Saint-Germain’s Kang-In Lee emerged as Atletico’s priority target for an advanced midfield role, with the South Korean international reported to be open to the switch after limited opportunities under Luis Enrique. Discussions between the two clubs had taken place, but, according to Matteo Moretto, PSG have rejected Atletico’s approach. The French side’s manager, Luis Enrique, has insisted that Kang-In Lee is not available for a January departure and is evidently not considering a transfer at this stage.
Future Possibilities and PSG’s Stance
There is a potential for negotiations to be revived when the summer transfer window opens. PSG are, however, aiming to secure Kang-In Lee’s services further by preparing a new contract proposal in an attempt to keep the attacking midfielder in Paris beyond the current campaign.
