Kim Min-jae (29) of Bayern Munich is seeing his standing rapidly diminish. Although Kim successfully adapted to the German stage and garnered expectations, he appears to be drifting further from the center amid recent defensive restructuring. As Bayern Munich has signed key Bayer Leverkusen defender Jonathan Tah, Kim is being treated as a player who is effectively 'on the transfer market,' while Serie A powerhouse Juventus has shown concrete interest in Kim.

Fabrizio Romano reported on the 24th (Korean time) that 'Bayern Munich has completed the signing of Jonathan Tah' and noted that 'Tah is expected to be a core part of Bayern Munich's defense next season.' Tah has been a key figure in the Bayer Leverkusen defense, which dominated this season's Bundesliga without a loss, and he is also solidifying his position on the German national team. Given his systematic defensive coordination and ability to build from the back, it is widely expected that Munich will restructure its defense around him.

Naturally, Kim Min-jae's standing is bound to shrink. The fact that Bayern Munich has brought in Tah signals that a generational change focused on defense is already in the execution stage.

Sport1 pointed out that 'Kim Min-jae became a target for criticism within the team, repeating injuries and fluctuations in performance throughout the season. The defensive instability revealed in the quarterfinals of the UEFA Champions League is also closely related to Kim,' highlighting his erratic performance.

Bild also analyzed that Kim Min-jae's future is fluid. Bild reported that 'Bayern Munich is preparing to accept transfer offers for Kim Min-jae. Bayern Munich has set the transfer fee at 30 to 35 million euros (46.6 to 54.4 billion won),' indicating that he is essentially viewed as 'a player on the market.' With the transfer fee made public, not only Premier League teams but also clubs in the Middle East are turning their attention back to Kim Min-jae.

Airline Napoli recently reported that 'Juventus is close to appointing Antonio Conte as the new head coach, and Conte has requested the signing of Kim Min-jae based on his appointment.' This makes the possibility of a return to Italy a reality. Kim Min-jae has experience being regarded as the best defender in the league after winning the Serie A title during his time at Napoli. Conte is known for building teams based on defensive organization, making the fit with Kim theoretically ideal.

An insider from Juventus has also strengthened this report. Juventus official Fabiana Della Valle stated that 'Coach Conte is already discussing the composition of the coaching staff, and Kim Min-jae is set as the top priority for signing.' This indicates that it is not just a matter of simple interest, but there has been substantial contact. If Conte takes charge, Kim Min-jae's transfer could gain momentum.

Meanwhile, Napoli, which was another option for Kim Min-jae, is also not completely closing the door on a reintegration. Local reports indicate that Napoli is preparing for a restructuring of its defense, and Kim Min-jae is still classified as a resource that would 'definitely be a starter upon return.' On the other hand, while Premier League clubs Newcastle and Manchester United are still showing interest, it is evaluated that a return to Serie A could be a realistic alternative in terms of tactical utilization and guaranteed playing time.

Saudi Arabian clubs have also prepared to enter the race for Kim Min-jae's signing. Clubs like Al-Hilal and Al-Nassr have already approached Kim Min-jae's camp during the last winter transfer market and are reportedly still in ongoing contact. In terms of salary scale and conditions, they can make offers far superior to any European club, so a last-minute twist cannot be ruled out.

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