PSG targets Kim Min-jae as center-back amid transfer rumors and talks

Kim Min-jae (29, Bayern Munich) is at the center of transfer rumors involving Paris Saint-Germain (PSG).

The French media outlet 'Foot Mercato' reported on the 8th (Korea time) that "Luis Campos, the Director General of PSG, met directly with Kim Min-jae's agent this week in Paris. PSG has placed Kim Min-jae on its list to reinforce the right center back position."

The media added, "Kim Min-jae's interest from PSG has been consistently relayed through various sources. The fact that Campos directly met with Kim Min-jae's agent shows PSG's intention."

'Foot Mercato' reports that there has been no official offer yet. Saudi Arabia's Al Nassr is also said to be expressing interest in acquiring Kim Min-jae.

Bayern has placed Kim Min-jae on its sell list. They have revealed a position that if they secure a suitable offer after strengthening their defense by acquiring Jonathan Tah from Bayer Leverkusen, they would allow Kim Min-jae's transfer.

Kim Min-jae has devoted himself to the team despite suffering from injuries in the 2024-2025 season, but what is returning is the 'decision to sell.'

He played 43 matches across all competitions, totaling 3,593 minutes. In the league, he participated for 2,289 minutes, recording the second most playing time on the team after Joshua Kimmich. He has been dealing with an Achilles injury since last October, having to push through due to consecutive injuries to his teammates that prevented him from getting enough rest.

Bayern has achieved good results. They reclaimed the Meisterschale (Bundesliga championship trophy) that they lost to Bayer Leverkusen last season.

In the 2022-2023 season, Kim Min-jae led Napoli to a Serie A title, and this season he secured the Bundesliga title. He became the first Korean player to lift trophies in two leagues of the top five European leagues.

There has also been criticism regarding Kim Min-jae's performance. He has faced the ire of fans for making critical mistakes in important matches such as the Champions League.

Bayern is reported not to be considering a loan for Kim Min-jae. They are said to be seeking a transfer fee of at least €30 million (about 46.5 billion won) to €50 million (77.6 billion won).

There were also rumors of a move to AC Milan surrounding Kim Min-jae. However, 'Gazzetta dello Sport' reported that "Kim Min-jae is earning a high annual salary of €8 million (about 12.4 billion won) to €9 million (about 14 billion won) at Bayern, making it difficult for Milan to afford him," predicting that the rumors are likely to remain just that.

On the other hand, PSG, backed by Qatari capital, has sufficient financial power. If PSG is serious about acquiring Kim Min-jae, salary concerns are unlikely to be an obstacle.

PSG has achieved a quadruple this season, including the Champions League title. With the potential departure of center back Marquinhos, Kim Min-jae has emerged as a replacement. 'Foot Mercato' reported that "Campos is looking for suitable candidates with Marquinhos' future uncertain. Kim Min-jae has been detected on the radar."

However, it remains to be seen whether PSG's interest will lead to an actual acquisition. 'Foot Mercato' asserted, "Kim Min-jae is under contract with Bayern until June 2028. His market value is evaluated at €40 million (about 62 billion won). Bayern wants €50 million. Whether PSG will pursue Kim Min-jae's acquisition further is uncertain."

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