Manchester United are leading the race for the signatures of the 26-year-old Napoli centre-back Kim Min-jae.

According to Calciomercatoweb, Manchester United are the front-runners for the signatures of Kim Min-jae. The 26-year-old centre-back has done wonders in his very first season at Napoli. And, multiple clubs from across Europe are keen on having him in their ranks.

Napoli acquired the services of Kim ahead of the ongoing season of Fenerbahce. He was brought to the Serie A club in order to replace Kalidou Koulibaly, who had left for Chelsea. Initially, there were a lot of doubts about whether the 26-year-old would be able to fill the big boots of Koulibaly.

However, it seems he has not just filled those boots but has done better than what was expected from him. He has been the mainstay of his team and has helped Napoli end their Serie A title drought. Kim has made a total of 42 appearances for the Serie A club, and he also has four goal contributions. He has been a rock in the heart of the defence for Napoli. The 26-year-old has hardly put a foot wrong throughout the season.

The South Korean international has become a fan favourite in his very first season at the Serie A club. However, it seems he might be on his way out just a year after joining them. While his contract with Napoli runs until the summer of 2025, there is a release clause which could lead to his departure.

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There is a €50 million release clause that could be triggered by top clubs who want to have the 26-year-old in their ranks. Napoli have tried removing the clause by giving him a contract extension. However, the player has not put pen to paper yet. And, with time running out, his departure looks likely.

Manchester United are ready to go all out for the South Korean international. The Red Devils want to add more firepower to their defence. With Harry Maguire likely to part ways with the club, signing a new defender is a must.

But, Erik ten Hag is not looking for a backup option. He wants to add a world-class centre-back who can form a deadly pair with either of Raphael Varane or Lisandro Martinez. Varane has had quite a few injury problems of late. As a result, signing Kim could be a great move from Manchester United.

The Red Devils have a pretty clear intent and are willing to pay the release clause of €50 million. And, once they agree on personal terms with the player Manchester United should have their man. However, there are other clubs around who can trouble them.

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