Kim Min-jae has reportedly rejected a new contract offer from Napoli as he seems intent on departing, with Manchester United keen.
According to 90min, Kim Min-jae has rejected a fresh proposal from Napoli to extend his contract. The Serie A champions want to offer the 26-year-old title-winning defender a new deal which would eliminate a release clause in his present agreement.
Kim Min-jae has been a revelation in Serie A this season, producing some brilliant performances for Napoli. The 26-year-old title-winning defender helped the team win the domestic title after an impasse of 33 years. His achievements have improved his stature and put him on the radars of some of the top clubs.
For weeks now, Manchester United have tried to negotiate a move with Napoli without success. Napoli might have stalled a move so far despite knowing Kim Min-jae’s intention to move on. He remains on a low salary, although the Serie A club are open to vastly improving his terms.
They may not match the offer from Manchester United but possibly come close. Many reports suggested they had tried and failed to offer him a new contract. They have now made a fresh proposal with improved terms, which the 26-year-old title-winning defender reportedly rejected.
Napoli’s primary agenda is to keep Kim Min-jae at the club beyond the summer and remove a £43 million release clause in his contract. The exit clause is only valid for two months in July, but until then, they can stall any approaches.
Hence, Manchester United are trying hard to get an agreement in place for the defender. They may have even offered to pay the release clause amount, but Napoli might value the South Korean at a higher price. Hence, they are trying to agree to fresh terms and eliminate the clause in his contract.
However, as things stand, the South Korean may have decided to move elsewhere, with Manchester United the current favourite to land him. Erik ten hag is looking for a new defender to replace Harry Maguire and bring some solidity at the back.
Kim Min-jae is a relatively cheaper option at £43 million, considering the prices for top-notch defenders in the current market climate. Whether Napoli make another attempt before July begins remains the question. But the Red Devils may have already convinced the 26-year-old title-winning defender about a move.
