Kim Min-jae (28, Bayern Munich) has once again emerged at the center of the European transfer market. Reports have emerged that Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), the UEFA Champions League champion, is exploring multiple center-back resources ahead of a defensive overhaul this summer, with Kim Min-jae included in that category.
L’Equipe reported on the 4th (Korea time) that "Bayern Munich's Kim Min-jae is likely to convey his intention to transfer soon, and is preparing internal scenarios with this possibility in mind," adding that "PSG's technical director, Luis Campos, does not consider Kim Min-jae a priority target for recruitment, but he is still included in the pool of candidates."
It also mentioned the possibility of changes in the defensive structure within PSG. The team's symbol and key defender, Marquinhos, may consider a new challenge after lifting the UEFA Champions League trophy last season.
If the scenario of Marquinhos' departure becomes a reality, PSG will need to hasten their follow-up defensive recruitment, and Kim Min-jae could emerge as a replacement option.
Kim Min-jae appeared in a total of 43 matches as a member of Bayern during the 2023-2024 season, scoring three goals. His official accumulated playing time has exceeded 3,500 minutes, including 2,289 minutes in the Bundesliga, 232 minutes in the DFB-Pokal, and 1,074 minutes in the UEFA Champions League, establishing himself as a key figure in Bayern Munich's defensive line.
Particularly during a time when the defense was on the brink of collapse due to a slew of injuries, Kim Min-jae consistently played despite not being in top condition, earning the evaluation of being a "dedicated defender." Despite ongoing injuries since last October, he persisted in playing, contributing to the team.
However, Bayern Munich's response has been somewhat lukewarm.
As the Bundesliga season progressed, his playing time noticeably decreased, and he was excluded from the starting lineup after a mistake-prone performance in the UEFA Champions League quarter-finals. Following this, German local media reported that Kim Min-jae was suffering from psychological pressure and external criticism. This has been linked to changes in his standing within the club.
Culturally, PSG stated, "Kim Min-jae is one of the candidates on PSG's defensive reinforcement list and is considered a strategically backup option," adding, "However, it is still uncertain whether his transfer will actually lead to a move to Paris. He is not a primary consideration at this time."
Currently, PSG is reviewing various alternatives to strengthen their defense, and no top target has been established. As a result, the significance Kim Min-jae holds in this project may change dynamically depending on future negotiations and internal evaluations.
Bayern Munich is also planning a defensive restructuring. In light of injuries and inconsistencies among starting defenders, as well as the aftermath of their failure in the UEFA Champions League, they are reviewing changes to the squad, and Kim Min-jae's status is likely to be a variable in this process.
Ultimately, Kim Min-jae's future choices will be determined by the transfer strategy of PSG, the plans of Bayern Munich, and his own decisions. Just a few months ago, Kim Min-jae was considered a core resource for Bayern, and now he stands at the center of transfer possibilities.
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