Newcastle United will have to trigger a €17 million release clause to sign Lee Kang-in from Mallorca in January.
According to MARCA, Lee Kang-in is a target for Newcastle United, and an approach could be forthcoming for the South Korean. RCD Mallorca do not want to lose the youngster, but they cannot do anything if a suitor triggers his €17 million release clause.
Lee Kan-in caught the attention of many with some bright displays for South Korea at the World Cup. His most prominent display came against Ghana when South Korea trailed the game. He provided the assist that sprung the Asian side back to life.
Paulo Bento’s decision not to start the exciting attacker in games baffled some. Not having the attacking midfielder for more time on the pitch may have hurt South Korea, but those cameos alerted several of his suitors.
Mallorca took a massive gamble by procuring the South Korean attacker on a free transfer from Valencia. Los Che could not get the paperwork in order, which allowed the La Liga side to envisage the player to have excellent future value.
Lee signed a five-year deal with Mallorca, and the contract has a €17 million release clause attached. The Spanish side do not want to lose the young attacker just yet, but they will have no choice if suitors pay up his exit clause in full.
Those sums are not a big ask for a Premier League club, and England is where the interest comes from. Newcastle United are reportedly keen on the 21-year-old La Liga-based attacker. Eddie Howe is in the market for exciting young talents that can become part of future squads.
Despite Lee’s good displays with South Korea, he may still not be at the level of Newcastle. At €17 million, a deal may represent good value for an exciting prospect who has performed well in La Liga this season. The South Korean’s two goals and three assists certainly are proof of his growing stature.
Newcastle were keen in the summer but may have wanted to wait to see how he performs this season. They might seem convinced of the South Korean attacker and could approach Mallorca with an offer. The Spanish side may demand the release clause in total, although the Magpies could negotiate the price down.
As for Lee, it will prove a fantastic opportunity to further his career and play in the biggest league. Newcastle could make an offer in January, and the player might move.
