Chelsea are reportedly hoping to sign 28-year-old South Korean defender Kim Min-jae from Bayern Munich during the summer transfer window.
According to a report by Italian outlet Tutto Mercato Web, Chelsea could offer Renato Veiga as part of a deal to sign 28-year-old Bayern Munich defender Kim Min-jae.
The former Napoli defender has done reasonably well at Bayern Munich, and he was part of their title-winning squad last season. However, the Bundesliga champions are reportedly willing to cash in on him in the summer transfer window.
A move to Chelsea could be a major opportunity for Kim Min-jae. Playing in the Premier League at this stage of his career would be a significant step, and Chelsea — being one of the world’s biggest clubs — would be an appealing destination.
Chelsea have secured UEFA Champions League qualification for next season and won the UEFA Conference League last term. They also recently lifted the FIFA Club World Cup. The South Korean defender would certainly back himself to win trophies at Stamford Bridge.
Tottenham in the race as well
Tottenham Hotspur are also keen on signing Kim Min-jae. The North London outfit may have an edge in the race thanks to club icon Son Heung-min, who could help convince his compatriot to join the North London club.
Both clubs will be competing in the Champions League next season, and it remains to be seen who will win the race. Tottenham may need to replace Cristian Romero, who could leave in the coming weeks. Kim Min-jae would be an ideal replacement — he is in his prime and physically capable of adapting to English football.
The 28-year-old will be attracted by the opportunity to join either club, but he will want to ensure regular playing time. Sitting on the bench at this stage of his career would not be ideal. It will be interesting to see if Bayern Munich are interested in a player-plus-cash deal with Chelsea or a cash deal with Tottenham. Both clubs will need to act quickly in order to get the deal done. They need to tighten up at the back next season, and the South Korean will certainly help them.