It’s bad news for Lee Kang-In. Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) are looking to sign a new midfielder.
European transfer market expert Fabrizio Romano tweeted on Saturday (June 16), “PSG have a strong interest in Benfica midfielder Joao Neves. They are not the only option. Benfica are insisting on 120 million euros (about 177.9 billion won).”
Lee left Mallorca to join PSG ahead of this season. In 23 Ligue 1 appearances, Lee scored three goals and provided four assists, helping PSG win the league title. The club also won the Coupe de France and the Trophée des Champions, making it three trophies in his first season.
However, the competition for the starting role next season is likely to be tough. PSG have entered the race to sign Neves, who has been dubbed the “next Bruno Fernandez”. Neves is primarily a defensive midfielder, but he can also play in a central midfield or attacking role. Neves is considered to be an excellent passer.
Neves came up through the youth ranks of Portuguese club Benfica. He joined Benfica in 2016 and has only played for one club since. After playing for Benfica’s B team since 2022, Neves made his first-team debut last season.
After his call-up to the first team, Neves excelled in the league last season, scoring one goal in 17 games. This season, he has transitioned seamlessly into the first team. In 33 league games, he has three goals and one assist. Neves has also played in all six UEFA Champions League games and six Europa League games, totaling 45 appearances.
Benfica finished second in the league with 25 wins, five draws, four losses, and 80 points, thanks in large part to Neves’ performance. Although they failed to win 토토사이트 the title, finishing 10 points behind Sporting, they qualified for the Champions League. In the Champions League, they finished third in their group, dropping down to the Europa League, but made it to the quarterfinals.
Neves has also been named to the Portugal national team roster. Neves earned his first call-up to the Portuguese national team last year and has been a consistent performer. He was also named to Portugal’s final roster for UEFA Euro 2024 in Germany.
His performances this season have led to several clubs chasing his signature, with Manchester United being the most active. PSG have also joined the race. While not the only option, PSG seems to see Neves as a necessary resource.
However, Neves’ current club, Benfica, is not willing to let him go so easily. They won’t let him go unless they pay €120 million. The €120 million is Neves’ current buyout clause. Man United and PSG are the two teams that will pay the buyout.