Bayern Munich closing on Manchester United target Kim Min-Jae

• Napoli defender Kim Min-Jae has attracted interest from across top European clubs 
• Bundesliga Champions Bayern Munich and Manchester United are battling for the defender’s signature
• Bayern Munich is however ahead and are closing in on agreeing to terms ahead of a possible transfer

Bayern Munich is nearing the completion of the signing of South Korean centre-back Kim Min-Jae from Napoli. Kim, who impressed as one of the top defenders in Europe last season, has a release clause of €50 million in his contract, which will become active in July. He has declined the offer of a new contract from Napoli, which would have removed the release clause.

Manchester United has been pursuing Kim’s signature for some time, but negotiations with the player’s representatives have progressed slowly. This delay has allowed Bayern to enter the race for his services. Bayern has expressed a willingness to activate Kim’s release clause and has been in negotiations with the player to secure a contract. Reports suggest that Bayern is close to finalizing the deal.

Napoli is now under the impression that Kim is set to join Bayern and is awaiting the activation of his release clause in early July. While Manchester United is still in talks with Kim’s representatives, they have made little progress in the past week. It appears increasingly likely that the centre-back will be heading to Germany.

Napoli defender Kim Min-Jae is a summer transfer target for Manchester United and Bayern Munich but the Bundesliga champions are leading the race for his signature. | PHOTO: Goal |

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Bayern’s interest in Kim arises as they anticipate potential interest in French international Lucas Hernandez, who has reportedly agreed to personal terms with Paris Saint-Germain. Bayern President Herbert Hainer has expressed a desire to keep Hernandez but has not ruled out a potential sale, especially considering that Hernandez is entering the final year of his contract.

With Kim’s impending move to Germany, Manchester United will need to explore other options. They are considering alternative targets, such as Leeds’ Robin Koch and Monaco’s Axel Disasi. While United is open to parting ways with Harry Maguire, the English defender remains determined to stay and compete for his place at Old Trafford.

The potential acquisition of Kim Min-Jae by Bayern Munich highlights the club’s proactive approach to bolstering their defensive options. Kim’s impressive performances have attracted attention, and Bayern’s willingness to trigger his release clause puts them in a favourable position to secure his services. As for Manchester United, they will need to shift their focus to alternative targets as they seek defensive reinforcements for the upcoming season. Harry Maguire’s commitment to staying at the club adds stability to United’s defensive line, but they will still explore other options to strengthen their squad.