Kim Min-jae is a target for racism and sale, while his partner is negotiating an extension contract. Is this treatment appropriate?

On the 16th (Korea time), Martin Plattenburg, a reporter for Germany's Sky Sports, noted, "Dayot Upamecano is in discussions with Bayern Munich over an extension contract. The contract period will likely last until 2030," and reported, "Since Kim Min-jae is not living up to expectations, Bayern is trying to keep Upamecano."

Bayern is facing a major overhaul of its defense. Previously, in April of last year, Germany's Sky Sports reported, "According to our investigation, Bayern is aiming to recruit Jonathan Tah. Bayern was deeply impressed by his performance this season. He can play in both three-back and four-back setups, and he is also one of the fastest defenders in the Bundesliga."

Originally, Tah was likely headed to FC Barcelona. It has been reported that a personal agreement between the player and the club was already reached. However, the situation changed dramatically. Barcelona found itself unable to complete the signing of Tah due to financial issues, ultimately leading to a swift change in circumstances and a move to Bayern.

In April, coinciding with that report, Tah stated that he would leave Bayer Leverkusen after this season. The Athletic reported, "If the contract is finalized, he will sign a three-year contract with Bayern, which will include a one-year extension option." Last weekend’s home game against Borussia Dortmund (a 2-4 loss) was his last at Leverkusen. After the match, Tah took the microphone to bid farewell to the home fans.

According to Germany's Bild, he reportedly said, "On one hand, I am heartbroken, and on the other hand, I look forward to the new journey ahead." He added, "I deeply appreciate the love and support shown by the fans over the past ten years." Previously, The Athletic mentioned on the 13th that Tah was in concrete negotiations to join Bayern Munich as a free agent when his contract with Leverkusen expires this summer.

The media reported, "Bayern has been pushing for center-back reinforcement amid the departure of Eric Dier to AS Monaco. Leverkusen’s vice-captain, Tah, has played a total of 401 matches at BayArena over the last ten seasons. In particular, he played a key role in achieving the treble, including the Bundesliga undefeated championship for the 2023-2024 season."

On the 14th, Romano stated, "The official offer presented by Bayern to Tah has been completed, including internal club approval. This includes salary conditions as well," noting, "Now the last key step is the player's decision. If Tah agrees, the transaction will be finalized. The ball is in Tah's court."

In the meantime, by recruiting Tah to fill the gap left by Dier, Bayern will establish a core defense composed of Kim Min-jae, Dayot Upamecano, and Tah. While there is a possibility that Kim Min-jae could be sold depending on the situation, at this point, the likelihood of him remaining is being considered higher. However, there have been claims in German media that Kim Min-jae will be sold.

Germany's Transfermarkt has claimed that in the next season, Bayern's lineup is expected to feature Tah and Upamecano as starters, while Kim Min-jae is said to be sold. Prior to this, on the 14th, the German media 'Sport Bild' reported, "Kim Min-jae is no longer an 'untouchable' asset. The club has not seen the level of performance expected, and he can be included in the list of targets for transfer." Journalist Christian Falk added, "Kim Min-jae himself is willing to consider a transfer if an attractive offer comes in."

Nevertheless, evaluations from teammates within the team remained warm. After confirming the Bundesliga championship in the 33rd round against Borussia Mönchengladbach, Kim Min-jae unexpectedly stood in the center of the stage during the victory ceremony. Eric Dier pulled him onto the awarding stage, and Harry Kane and Thomas Müller also handed him the trophy. The scene of Kim Min-jae lifting the Meisterschale was captured on live broadcast cameras and stadium screens.

However, due to Bayern's cold evaluation, the possibility of Kim Min-jae leaving Germany is increasing. Juventus, where Director General Cristiano Giuntoli, who recruited Kim Min-jae during his time at Napoli, is present, and Inter Milan are also reported to be entering the transfer race.

Kim Min-jae was a standout defender during the 2022-23 season with Napoli, leading them to the Serie A title. Taormina News24 reported on the 24th of last month, "Kim Min-jae may return to Serie A after leaving Bayern Munich."

Taormina News24 explained, "After a disappointing two seasons, Kim Min-jae is set to leave Bayern Munich, and his future may hinge on a return to Italy." He was among the key figures who led Napoli to the Serie A championship in the 2022-23 season, and now Kim Min-jae is attracting interest from three clubs in Italy.

Plattenburg stated, "Bayern is facing many concerns regarding their defense. Dier has left for Monaco and Kim Min-jae has not met expectations." He added, "It is essential for Bayern to secure a long-term contract for Upamecano. Hence, Bayern has already entered extension contract negotiations, which are progressing very constructively."

Separate from the sale of Kim Min-jae, Bayern aims to secure a long-term contract for Upamecano. Ultimately, this contradictory stance by Bayern has led to a significant disparity in treatment between the two players. There are concerns that Bayern, troubled by their defense, may continue with such unreasonable choices.

[OSEN]