Kim Min-jae (Bayern Munich) has officially denied transfer rumors, but interest from Premier League clubs remains unabated. As the season approaches its conclusion, interest across Europe regarding his future has reignited.
Kim Min-jae stated in an interview published by Sport Bild, "I am satisfied playing for Bayern Munich and want to continue performing at Bayern Munich next season."
He further noted, "It is most important to prepare for the season in good health" and stated, "There is absolutely no reason for me to leave Bayern Munich."
However, contrary to his wishes, local media in the UK continue to report on transfer rumors. In particular, connections with Newcastle United have been frequently mentioned.
Give Me Sport stated, "Newcastle is looking to strengthen its global defensive resources," identifying Kim Min-jae as a key target, while Newcastle Tunes also claimed, "The club has initiated contact with Kim Min-jae's side."
Mick Brown, a scout who has consistently observed promising players in the Premier League, emphasized in an interview with Football Insider, "Manager Eddie Howe has prioritized strengthening the defense" and stated, "Kim Min-jae is one of the core targets they envision."
Brown also added, "Kim Min-jae was already a transfer candidate for Manchester United and there is significant interest in the Premier League."
Praise for Kim Min-jae's technical abilities has not gone unnoticed. UK media reported, "With experience gained in Serie A and the Bundesliga, along with exceptional aerial control and backward buildup capability, Kim Min-jae perfectly aligns with Manager Howe's tactics."
However, there are variables that make it difficult to definitively conclude about Kim Min-jae's possibility of staying. Transfer market expert Fabrizio Romano, known for the keyword "Here We Go," noted, "The possibility of Kim Min-jae's transfer is quite substantial," identifying salary issues as the main barrier.
Romano stated, "The current salary is significant, making it difficult for other European clubs to afford," and analyzed, "If he accepts a salary cut, a transfer within Europe would be possible, but if not, a move to Saudi Arabia could also be a realistic option."
The controversy surrounding Kim Min-jae is not limited to transfer rumors. Sky Sports Germany raised questions about Kim Min-jae's performance.
Sky Sports Germany reported, "Although he has played a total of 77 matches for Bayern Munich, he has shown unstable performances in his second season," adding, "This season, he has conceded during matches due to mistakes a total of six times, which is the highest among major center backs in Europe."
Moreover, there have also been issues regarding his physical condition. The International Federation of Professional Football Players (FIFPro) highlighted Kim Min-jae's overexertion, stating, "This season, he has participated in a staggering 55 matches and has traveled over 74,000 km." Notably, concerns about his physical condition have increased as it has been revealed that he has consistently participated in matches despite ongoing Achilles pain since last fall.
In fact, during training for the match against Slovan Bratislava last January, Kim Min-jae left the training ground just 13 minutes in, after which he experienced a cough, throat pain, and back pain, leading to his withdrawal from the national team call-up.
Recently, he was spotted missing training at Bayern Munich but returned the next day, showing determination to continue training. Amidst injuries, accumulated fatigue, and mistakes controversies, Kim Min-jae remains the last line of defense for Bayern Munich.
Ultimately, Kim Min-jae's future remains uncertain until just before the transfer market opens. He has clearly expressed his desire to "want to stay," but the big clubs in the Premier League have not given up on him. With performance controversies, overexertion issues, and salary burdens intertwining, it is highly likely that future negotiations will be complex.
Is Kim Min-jae's true desire for a "healthy season preparation" attainable at Bayern Munich? Or will he make the choice to prove himself once again in a new league? The biggest interest in the summer transfer market continues to revolve around Kim Min-jae.
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