Kim Min-jae (28, Bayern Munich)'s transfer potential is becoming more concrete.
Numerous German media reported on the 24th (Korean time) that "multiple clubs in Saudi Arabia have officially entered the competition for Kim Min-jae's signing." Bayern is in a mood to welcome the transfer in terms of recovering the transfer fee and securing finances.
German media 'TZ' and 'FCB Inside' noted, "Kim Min-jae was a defender signed by Bayern, who invested 50 million euros (approximately 81.4 billion won) last summer, but he has lost trust after making several mistakes this season. He was involved in a crucial goal conceded during the UEFA Champions League match against Inter, which disappointed the club's upper management," outlining the background for him being classified as a candidate for release.
They added, "Bayern currently has Kim Min-jae on their list of candidates for sale. The goal is clear: to recover the investment through transfer fees and secure a budget, along with plans to acquire new defensive resources."
Concrete destination candidates have also emerged. According to the media, "Several clubs in Saudi Arabia have shown interest in Kim Min-jae, and it has been confirmed that official inquiries have been made to Bayern. In particular, since the financial burden of the transfer fee is not significant for the Saudi clubs, it could be an offer that Bayern would welcome."
Before this report, on the 23rd, European transfer market expert Fabrizio Romano mentioned through his social media that "Kim Min-jae could leave the team this summer if there is a satisfactory offer 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 signing him."
This statement, which can be interpreted as Bayern effectively removing Kim Min-jae from the 'Not For Sale' list, immediately shook the entirety of Europe. Notably, Juventus, Chelsea, and Newcastle United are considering him as their top target for summer reinforcements, and the interest from Saudi clubs adds significant weight.
The rapid increase in rumors about Kim Min-jae's transfer is due to his poor performance and overwhelming schedule. He was directly involved in conceded goals during matches against Borussia Dortmund and the UEFA Champions League quarterfinal second leg against Inter Milan, drawing criticism from German media. The German 'Bild' reported that Kim Min-jae's market value has been set at 50 million euros.
These criticisms are not solely about Kim Min-jae's individual issues. He has played 42 of Bayern's 47 matches despite frequent injuries such as achilles tendinopathy, knee and back pain, and pharyngitis. In terms of playing time, he ranks second on the team, following Joshua Kimmich.
Kim Min-jae's standing in Europe remains solid. Newcastle United is reportedly prioritizing strengthening its center-backs due to aging defensive lines and frequent injuries, with Kim Min-jae reportedly topping their list.
As mentioned, some clubs in Europe, in addition to those in Saudi Arabia, are keeping an eye on Kim Min-jae's situation. However, Bayern has clarified the conditions for his sale. TZ emphasized, "Kim Min-jae's transfer will only occur if a suitable amount is proposed, and not for unconditional disposal." The amount Bayern hopes for is on par with the 50 million euros paid to SSC Napoli for acquiring Kim Min-jae.
Additionally, FCB Inside noted, "Kingsley Coman's transfer to Saudi Arabia is also being discussed, while Leroy Sané has not responded to interests from Saudi clubs," indicating that Kim Min-jae's transfer is tied to Bayern's reorganization process.
Kim Min-jae played a pivotal role in leading Napoli to the Serie A title last season and was highly anticipated upon his transfer to Bayern. However, frequent mistakes and poor performance prevented him from securing a regular starting position in the second half of the season. Bayern, sensitive to squad restructuring and financial management, is leaving the door open for Kim Min-jae's future, and the aggressive approach from Saudi clubs could further accelerate this trend.
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