Could Kim Min-jae (29, Bayern Munich) become the 16th Korean Premier League player? He is receiving significant attention in the transfer market, but there are concerns that his high salary could be a stumbling block.

On the 24th (Korean time), European football transfer market expert Fabrizio Romano addressed Kim Min-jae's transfer news through his YouTube channel. He noted, "Kim Min-jae, who previously played for Napoli, is having a disappointing season at Bayern. However, honestly, Bayern has been plagued by injuries, and he has had to play in poor physical condition at times. These factors must also be considered when evaluating the player."

He added, "Kim Min-jae has a concrete possibility of leaving Bayern if a good offer comes in during the summer transfer window. He should be monitored closely. Several European clubs have been calling to inquire about Kim Min-jae's situation. The interest from Saudi Arabia clubs is also real."

However, the salary issue remains. Romano said, "Kim Min-jae is earning a considerably high salary at Bayern. Although his transfer fee is not very high, the salary amount is quite substantial. This could be a problem for European teams. On the other hand, Saudi Arabia is prepared to match Kim Min-jae's salary. They might even offer a larger sum."

Kim Min-jae must choose between money and the European stage. Romano emphasized, "Kim Min-jae has to decide whether to accept a pay cut and continue his European career or go to Saudi Arabia. Let’s see what happens. Of course, Bayern needs to receive a satisfactory offer as well. However, the possibility of Kim Min-jae leaving Bayern is really concrete."

Kim Min-jae has recently been swept up in transfer rumors. He is linked to Chelsea, Newcastle United, and Juventus. One thing is certain: Bayern is considering parting ways with Kim Min-jae just two years after signing him from Napoli in the summer of 2023.

Last weekend, 'Sky Sports Germany' reported, "Bayern is open to offers! Kim Min-jae can leave." They noted, "Kim Min-jae is no longer an untouchable player at Bayern. If an offer commensurate with his value comes in, Bayern is willing to enter discussions."

Journalist Florian Plettenberg stated, "Kim Min-jae is not regarded as an 'untouchable' player at Bayern," adding, "If Kim Min-jae leaves, Bayern will reinvest that money. Otherwise, they are planning for next season with Kim Min-jae, Dayot Upamecano, Hiroki Ito, Eric Dier, and Josip Stanisic as center-back options. Kim Min-jae's contract runs until 2028."

'Bild' in Germany also reported that Bayern would not block a transfer if they could recoup the €50 million (approximately 81.4 billion won) they invested when signing Kim Min-jae two years ago. The publication stated, "Kim Min-jae's buyout amount is €110 million (approximately 180.3 billion won). However, they can sell him for just €50 million."

The main reason Bayern is considering parting ways with Kim Min-jae is his mistakes during matches. Recently, he allowed a goal by losing track of an opposing striker during 'Der Klassiker' against Dortmund, and in the subsequent UEFA Champions League (UCL) quarterfinal second leg against Inter Milan, he failed to prevent a goal during a header battle with Benjamin Pavard.

While it's harsh to place all the blame on Kim Min-jae, it seems trust in him has been shaken in Germany. Sky Sports stated, "Due to the multitude of mistakes Kim Min-jae has shown in recent weeks and months, he is no longer considered an untradeable asset," noting, "After spending two years in the red and white uniform, Kim Min-jae could leave the team this coming summer."

Bayern is seeking a new defensive leader to replace Upamecano, who is struggling with contract negotiations, and Kim Min-jae, whose role has diminished. They intend to use the transfer fee gained from selling Kim Min-jae to bring in a top defender.

Sky Sports reported, "There are too many mistakes, and too little of the 'defensive monster' aspect. According to our information, Bayern's Kim Min-jae is not an impossible transfer this summer," adding, "Bayern is open to offers for Kim Min-jae. However, they are not actively pushing for a sale. If Kim Min-jae does leave, it could result in a significant transfer that may lead to new acquisitions. One of the candidates is Dean Henderson (Bournemouth)."

Despite this, Kim Min-jae remains a popular player in the transfer market. According to 'Foot Mercato' and Sky Sports Germany, Chelsea, Newcastle, and top Serie A club Juventus are all eyeing Kim Min-jae. Saudi clubs are also beginning to inquire about him.

Among them, a race between Chelsea and Newcastle is anticipated. It is reported that Kim Min-jae prefers to take on a new challenge in the Premier League rather than return to Serie A. Given that he is still at an age where he can continue his peak years, the possibility of moving to Saudi Arabia is considered low.

Newcastle appears to be actively pursuing the acquisition of Kim Min-jae. The British 'Newcastle Tunes' stated, "The transfer rumors surrounding Kim Min-jae are heating up. Newcastle is actively looking for defensive reinforcements. The Magpies have faced injury struggles throughout the season. Securing an overwhelming presence like Kim Min-jae could solve several issues," adding, "Whether on loan or fully signed, ideas regarding Kim Min-jae's transfer are gaining momentum."

The fact that Eddie Howe, the Newcastle manager, mainly employs strong forward pressing and direct long passes from the back also fits perfectly. The media noted, "Kim Min-jae is known for his aerial dominance, tactical ability, and strong leadership. Manager Howe holds him in high regard," adding, "At 190 cm, Kim Min-jae will provide calmness, excellent aerial battle skills, and elite-level experience. He can play comfortably from the back and showcase his skills at a high defensive line. He fits perfectly into Howe's system."

Chelsea also wants Kim Min-jae. According to 'Sky Sports', Chelsea is reluctant to activate Tyron Mings' buyout clause, amounting to £50 million (approximately 95.5 billion won). Newcastle Tunes noted, "Chelsea is also moving quickly, reaching out to Kim Min-jae's side to explore potential movements. Following a season of ups and downs, Chelsea is in desperate need of defensive stability and views Kim Min-jae as a ready-made solution."

However, Kim Min-jae's market value and salary could be variables. A transfer fee of €50 million is not an amount that financially strong clubs like Chelsea and Newcastle cannot afford, but it is by no means a small sum, especially considering that he plays as a central defender.

Additionally, it is reported that Kim Min-jae currently earns up to €17 million (approximately 27.7 billion won) per year at Bayern. According to 'Sport Bild', he is tied for the 7th highest salary at Bayern alongside Thomas Müller and Leon Goretzka. While Chelsea might manage it, it is an amount that reaches the highest level within Newcastle.

This is the reason why Kim Min-jae's transfer rumors to Saudi Arabia are receiving attention. In Saudi Arabia, both Kim Min-jae and Bayern have the financial backing to make a proposal that is satisfactory to both sides. Particularly, clubs like Al Hilal, Al Ittihad, Al Nassr, and Al Ahli, backed by the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF), could potentially offer even more money than mentioned by Romano.

Ultimately, the choice lies with Kim Min-jae. He appears to have to choose between a European career and oil money. Alternatively, he could stay at Bayern and challenge to prove himself once again. Kim Min-jae is at a significant crossroads in his athletic career.

[Photo] ⓒ Gettyimages (Unauthorized reproduction and redistribution prohibited), 365 Scores, Chelsea Super Club, WIK7, Fabrizio Romano, Football Insider.

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