Kim Min-jae is close to agreeing to personal terms with Bayern Munich, with Manchester United falling behind in the chase.
According to reputed Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano, Manchester United might have to identify an alternative to Kim Min-jae. The 26-year-old is close to agreeing to personal terms with Bayern Munich. And talks between the Bundesliga champions and Napoli are advancing quickly.
Kim Min-jae has taken no time to establish himself as one of the best defenders in Serie A. The South Korean international was an unheralded figure for a long time, going under the radar for much of his professional career. But he has not looked back since joining Napoli from Fenerbahce last summer.
The 26-year-old was a pivotal figure for the Partenopei as they won the Serie A title this past season. Kim turned out 45 times across all competitions, chipping in with two goals and two assists. And the player’s progress has captured the attention of several high-profile clubs. Bayern Munich and Manchester United are two of his prospective suitors.
Recent reports had pointed to Manchester United being well-placed to secure Kim’s services this summer. The Red Devils are in the market for a centre-back amid uncertainties surrounding Harry Maguire. And with Raphael Varane’s fitness issues not disappearing, it behoves Manchester United to invest in a top-class centre-back.
🚨 Understand Bayern have presented their project to Kim Min-jae this week and the agreement on personal terms is now close. #FCBayern
Kim, tempted by Bayern as talks are now advancing fast.
Man United remain interested but it was never done.
Release clause available in July. pic.twitter.com/VTnoxIvlos
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 15, 2023
Kim Min-jae had thus emerged as a viable target for Manchester United. And the Red Devils have been pushing to seal the deal for the Napoli defender for a long time. But Manchester United will face stiff competition from Bayern Munich for the 26-year-old. And the Bundesliga champions are close to reaching an agreement on personal terms.
Fabrizio Romano has also added that talks between Bayern Munich and Napoli are advancing. So the 26-year-old might soon snub Manchester United to move to the Allianz Arena. And with Lucas Hernandez and Benjamin Pavard facing an uncertain future at Bayern Munich, Kim is an attractive target.
Manchester United face an uphill task to win the race to sign Kim Min-jae from Napoli. But the 26-year-old is seemingly closer to joining Bayern Munich instead. It will be interesting to see if the Red Devils turn the tide in the coming weeks.
