Kim Min-jae (28, Bayern Munich) is once again heating up the center of the European transfer market with calls for his transfer. Premier League clubs, as well as Saudi clubs, are reportedly showing interest this time.
European transfer market expert Fabrizio Romano noted via his social media on the 23rd (Korean time) that "Kim Min-jae could leave his team this summer if there are satisfactory offers for both him and Bayern Munich. He is no longer 'untouchable.' Major European clubs are aware of this situation, and Saudi Pro League clubs are also exploring the possibility of acquiring him."
This statement is interpreted as Bayern effectively excluding Kim Min-jae from their 'Not For Sale' list, immediately shaking the landscape across Europe. In particular, Juventus, Chelsea, and Newcastle United are considering him as their top priority for summer reinforcements, and the interest shown by Saudi clubs is significant.
According to local media, Al Nassr, Al Ittihad, and Al Ahli, backed by the sovereign wealth funds of Saudi Arabia, are emerging as strong candidates. From Kim Min-jae's perspective, having risen from the Asian stage to the top level in Europe, Saudi Arabia could be a practically appealing transfer destination where he can enjoy high salaries in a relatively quiet environment.
The rapid emergence of transfer rumors regarding Kim Min-jae is linked to his poor performance and overloaded schedule. He was directly involved in the scoring scenes in the matches against Borussia Dortmund and the UEFA Champions League quarterfinal second leg against Inter Milan, drawing criticism from the German media. German outlet Bild reported that Kim Min-jae's market value has been set at 50 million euros (about 81 billion won).
These criticisms are not solely related to Kim Min-jae's personal issues. Despite frequent injuries, including Achilles tendonitis, knee and back pain, and a sore throat, he has participated in 42 of the 47 matches that Bayern have played. In terms of playing time, he ranks second on the team after Joshua Kimmich. The fact that he has played more than attacking players such as Jamal Musiala, Harry Kane, and Michael Olise indicates that Kim Min-jae remains a key asset for the team.
The International Federation of Professional Footballers (FIFPro) also expressed concern over the controversy regarding the overexertion of Kim Min-jae, stating that "a system is needed to protect players."
Kim Min-jae's position in Europe remains solid. Newcastle is prioritizing strengthening their center-back position due to aging defenders and frequent injuries, and reports indicate Kim Min-jae is at the top of the list.
Chelsea also considered Kim Min-jae as a key part of a long-term project alongside Bournemouth's Dean Henderson, but recent trends indicate a change in direction. Juventus has suspended negotiations due to Kim Min-jae's lukewarm response to a return to Serie A.
Nevertheless, Kim Min-jae's camp is expected to hold off on official negotiations, as the season is still ongoing, and aim to make definitive decisions around the opening of the summer transfer market. Bayern is still in contention for the Bundesliga championship, and Kim Min-jae is known to have a strong sense of responsibility towards the team.
The question now is what choice Kim Min-jae will make now that he has been released from 'untouchable' status. After dominating Serie A with SSC Napoli and even being a candidate for the Ballon d'Or, the gaze of the world is once again focused on the journey of the 'monster center-back.' One thing is certain: domestic fans will hope he continues to pursue challenges in Europe rather than opting for Saudi Arabia.
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