Bayern Munich is prepared to let go of Kim Min-jae (29). The reports from influential local media in Germany are consistent. It seems that Bayern Munich has already excluded Kim Min-jae from its key plans for next season.

Falk said on the 14th (Korean time), "Bayern Munich is struggling in the hunt for Florian Wirtz (Bayer Leverkusen), but they are gaining confidence in acquiring Jonathan Tah (Bayer Leverkusen)."

He continued, "Initially, a move to Barcelona was likely for Tah, but recently Bayern Munich has emerged as a strong destination. There is a clear plan to transfer Kim Min-jae, and Tah is the right person to replace him."

Falk stated, "Bayern Munich's board has determined that Kim Min-jae's performance does not align with the expectations they had when bringing him in,” adding that “this summer, Kim Min-jae is on the release list, and he is open to a transfer if a meaningful offer comes in."

In fact, Kim Min-jae had recently said, "I want to stay." However, he has changed his stance.

Falk reported, "Kim Min-jae has withdrawn his intention to stay and has informed those around him that he will not refuse a transfer."

On April 30, Kim Min-jae mentioned in an interview with the media, "There is no reason to leave. However, I must watch the situation," and the situation changed dramatically just two weeks later.

The local reaction reflects the internal plans of Bayern Munich. The soccer statistics media "Transfermarkt" released their projected best XI for Bayern for the 2025-2026 season on the 14th through their official social media, and Kim Min-jae’s name did not appear anywhere on the list.

The projected lineup configured in a 4-3-3 formation includes Manuel Neuer as goalkeeper, with the defense comprising Alphonso Davies, Jonathan Tah, Dayot Upamecano, and Josip Stanišić. The midfield consists of Joshua Kimmich, Jamal Musiala, and Florian Wirtz, while the attack features Kingsley Coman, Harry Kane, and Michael Olise.

Kim Min-jae has completely fallen out. The fact that a starting center-back, who ranked 2nd in playing time despite injuries for most of the season, cannot be found in the best lineup for next season symbolizes that he is clearly on the "lend" list.

The trend of separation is also reflected in the pricing of the transfer fee. On the 16th, Bild reported that Bayern will formalize the sale of Kim Min-jae if they succeed in acquiring Tah, and the transfer fee has been adjusted downward.

Initially, Kim Min-jae was acquired from SSC Napoli two years ago through a buyout clause of €50 million (78.1 billion won). However, the current hoped-for sale price set by Munich is in the range of €30 million to €35 million (46.9 billion to 54.7 billion won), which is effectively close to half of the original price.

Tah, whom Bayern Munich has earmarked as a successor, is at the center of Munich's defensive plans for the upcoming season. Standing at 195 cm and boasting a top speed of 35.8 km/h, he is a key defender who led Bayer Leverkusen to an undefeated championship this season. Moreover, the fact that he will leave the team this summer as a free agent adds to the club's decision.

Falk explained, "Although Tah was rumored to transfer to Barcelona, he currently has no intention of leaving Germany. Bayern Munich has emerged as a strong candidate for acquisition, and Bayern Munich is also leaning towards Tah as the next defensive leader."

Bayern Munich plans to restructure its defense with the combination of Tah and Dayot Upamecano. Kim Min-jae will have no choice but to give up his place in this system.

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