The transfer rumors surrounding Kim Min-jae (29, Bayern Munich) have moved beyond mere speculation to a decisive moment. The officialization of the new central defender Jonathan Tah (Bayer Leverkusen) has created an atmosphere that Bayern Munich is virtually placing Kim Min-jae on the transfer market. As Juventus, a stronghold in Italy's Serie A, has emerged as a potential destination following interest from the Premier League and Saudi Arabia, Kim Min-jae's summer is heating up.
Transfer market expert Fabrizio Romano noted on the 24th (Korean time) through his social media that "Bayern Munich has officially signed defender Jonathan Tah." With Romano's characteristic confirmation expression "Here we go" included, Tah's transfer to Bayern Munich has become imminent. Tah was one of the key players who led Bayer Leverkusen to an unbeaten victory in the Bundesliga last season and has already established his position in the German national team. His joining, with precise defensive involvement and build-up capabilities, is likely to become the focal point of Bayern Munich's defensive restructuring.
Such defensive reinforcement can only narrow someone's position, and for now, that individual is likely to be Kim Min-jae.
Bild reported on the 20th that "Despite Bayern Munich's decent performance, Kim Min-jae continues to face criticism. Repeated injuries and lack of form have caused instability in the defensive line," revealing disappointment towards Kim Min-jae. It specifically pointed to his inconsistent performances during the UEFA Champions League quarterfinals, identifying him as one of the reasons the entire Bayern Munich defense was shaken.
On the 21st, Bild reported that Bayern Munich is waiting for transfer offers for Kim Min-jae. Bayern Munich has reportedly set Kim Min-jae's transfer fee between €30 million and €35 million (466 to 544 billion won). Turning Kim Min-jae, who was classified as a key resource before the season, into a marketable asset is not merely a repositioning of players but a clear part of a generational change and strategic shift. Various clubs have shown interest in Kim Min-jae. Premier League clubs Newcastle United and Manchester United consider him a long-term defensive leader, while Saudi Arabia's Al-Hilal has been in contact since last year.
However, Airy Napoli reported that Juventus has promised full support to appoint Antonio Conte as their next manager, and in that process, Kim Min-jae's name has been included in the list of transfer candidates. Airy Napoli added that Juventus, in bringing Conte on board, has commenced serious efforts to acquire players he desires, including Kim Min-jae, Gianluigi Donnarumma, Sandro Tonali, and Victor Osimhen. Kim Min-jae has already had a successful experience in Serie A, making headlines during his time at Napoli and achieving top ratings in Italy as a defender, which is quite rare.
Inside Juventus, the transfer rumors are gaining credibility. Juventus specialist Fabiana Della Valle stated, "Juventus successfully made direct contact with Conte, who is already preparing his coaching staff for his arrival," adding that Kim Min-jae's acquisition is at the top of Conte's request list. Conte is an excellent coach in defense tactics and organization building. The tactics centered around a strong defensive line fit well with Kim Min-jae. In fact, Kim Min-jae has demonstrated strengths in systems based on defensive organization within the Italian stage. Juventus aims to enhance the completeness of their defense through Kim Min-jae's return to Italy.
At the same time, Napoli is also considering re-signing Kim Min-jae. Local media suggest that regardless of whether Conte heads to Napoli or Juventus, the fact that Kim Min-jae remains a target of his interest indicates a consistent possibility of transfer. A move to the Premier League is still a strong scenario, but analyses suggest that returning to familiar Italy may be a more realistic choice, considering competition for starting positions, adaptation issues, and tactical compatibility.
The Saudi Arabian oil money remains an attractive alternative. Regardless of the level of the league, the salary and guaranteed conditions are incomparable to those in other leagues. Both Al-Hilal and Al-Nassr are interested in acquiring top-class defenders from Europe, and Kim Min-jae regularly features as a key target for these clubs.
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