Lee Kang-in's Atletico Madrid announcement delayed — but 'no problem at all'

The official announcement of Lee Kang-in's transfer to Atletico Madrid has been delayed far longer than expected, though Spanish media say there is nothing wrong with the deal itself.

Spanish outlet Marca reported Friday that Atletico and Paris Saint-Germain exchanged documents related to the transfer throughout Thursday, completing the final procedural steps. "Korea is waiting for the official announcement with anticipation and impatience," the outlet said.

Marca added that Lee had completed his medical examination in Korea more than a week ago, that all contract terms with Atletico had been agreed upon, and that the matter of terminating his PSG contract had been resolved. "What is currently delaying the announcement is simply the finalization of all the paperwork," it said.

Esto es Atleti, a Spanish outlet specializing in Atletico coverage, also addressed the delay, saying "there is no problem at all." The outlet said the club is preparing the official announcement but that the process takes time. "Atletico does not want to make any mistakes," it said.

Atletico is also timing the announcement with an eye toward maximizing attention among South Korean football fans, taking the time zone difference into account.

"It appears the club also intends to use the official announcement to capitalize on the effect of the Korean time zone," Esto es Atleti said, adding that the delay follows normal procedure.

The outlet said the situation is "simply a matter of timing" and expressed near-certainty that the official announcement would come Saturday. "There are no serious problems whatsoever," it said.

If local expectations hold, Lee's move to Atletico should be confirmed shortly.