Min-jae Kim (29, Bayern Munich)'s future is uncertain. Bayern is pressuring Kim Min-jae to transfer while bringing in a new center-back.
German media 'FCB Inside' reported on the 29th (Korean time) that 'Bayern is undergoing significant changes to its defensive line. Kim Min-jae is gradually being distanced from the club's future plans.'
Bayern has recently signed Jonathan Tah from Bayer Leverkusen, bolstering its defense. Tah is a key defender who led Leverkusen to an undefeated championship in the Bundesliga for the 2023-2024 season. His contract extends until June 2029, and his jersey number is 4.
Bayern plans to build its defense for next season around Tah, Upamecano, and Stanišić. Japanese defender Ito is excluded due to injury, and Eric Dier is also not included in future plans due to injury and contract expiration.
'FCB Inside' noted, 'Bayern is likely to choose Tah and Upamecano as the primary center-back pairing for next season. Kim Min-jae may be sidelined in the starting competition and could be categorized as a backup alongside Stanišić.'
It added, 'Kim Min-jae has intermittently shown performances that meet expectations for the 2024-2025 season, but he has lacked consistency. If a suitable transfer offer comes in, Bayern will sell him.'
Another German media outlet, 'Bild,' also reported on the same day that 'Tah and Upamecano are evaluated internally at Bayern as a complementary pair. Kim Min-jae is highly likely to be pushed to the bench.'
Bayern is also reportedly considering additional defensive signings beyond the acquisition of Tah.
The possibility of Kim Min-jae's transfer is becoming increasingly concrete. Christian Falk, a journalist from 'Bild,' mentioned that 'Bayern expects to generate revenue of €30 million (approximately 46.9 billion won) to €35 million (approximately 54.8 billion won) through the sale of Kim Min-jae.'
The issue is his salary. European transfer market expert Fabrizio Romano stated that if Kim Min-jae wishes to transfer, a salary reduction is unavoidable.
Romano said, 'Kim Min-jae is receiving a significantly high salary at Bayern. While the transfer fee is not large, his salary poses a burden for teams wanting to acquire him. European clubs may view this as an obstacle.' He added that 'Saudi clubs can match Kim Min-jae's salary and might even offer more.'
Romano emphasized, 'Kim Min-jae needs to decide whether to lower his salary and remain in Europe or head to Saudi Arabia.'
Kim Min-jae is reportedly earning up to €17 million (approximately 27.7 billion won) annually at Bayern. This places him joint 7th in the team, alongside Thomas Müller and Leon Goretzka, at a high salary level and ranks among the best compared to top clubs in the Premier League.
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