With the 2023 Chinese Super League (CSL) season coming to an end, major clubs have been rubbing their fists and preparing for the transfer market frenzy. Recently, there have been whispers that Lee Kee Tei, the South Korean soccer superstar and leader of Suwon Samsung, might be joining one of the Chinese Super League giants when the winter transfer window opens. It is rumored that Chengdu Rongcheng is becoming his top choice. However, it seems that the talks about him and Rongcheng are just a false alarm without wind.
At 32 years old, Lee Ki Tei, as the captain of Suwon Samsung, is a rising star in the Korean soccer world. Despite his late rise to fame, his strength should not be underestimated. Last year, he officially became the main left back of the South Korean national team and played the full 90 minutes against China, showing his excellent assist and all-round skills.
Lee Ki Tei's contract with Suwon Samsung doesn't expire until 2025, but he's eager to sign a lucrative new deal at the prime tail end of his career. Given his contribution to the team, Suwon Samsung have not placed too many restrictions on him in the transfer market. And Chengdu Rongcheng manager Seo Jung-won has a good relationship with Suwon Samsung's top brass, which may be one of the reasons why Rongcheng is Lee Kee-dee's preferred destination.
In terms of strength, Lee Ki Tei is undoubtedly a top player in Asia as a starter for South Korea. However, Chinese Super League teams usually do not bring in foreigners at the wing back position. Last year, Beijing Guoan brought in South Korean international Kang Xiangyu, who is also a wingback, but he gradually transformed into a midfielder at Guoan, and can even play as a winger. Li Ji Di's individual ability, no doubt no less than Jiang Xiangyou. Perhaps it is due to the introduction of Kang Xiangyou by Guoan, Chengdu Rongcheng will target the reinforcement of Lee Kee Tei.
