Kim Min-jae (29, Bayern Munich) returning to SSC Napoli has been assessed as virtually impossible locally. Recently, local Italian media mentioned Kim Min-jae as one of the candidates for strengthening Napoli's defense, but the actual possibility is considered low.
Italian 'Area Napoli' reported on the 11th (Korean time) that "Napoli is examining various resources to strengthen its defense under manager Antonio Conte. Although Kim Min-jae's name has been mentioned recently, it is difficult to view him as a realistic acquisition candidate."
Napoli is currently in the middle of restructuring its defense ahead of challenges in Serie A and European competitions. According to reports, Napoli's top target is Bologna defender Sam Beukema. Negotiations are difficult due to Bologna's firm stance, but the club sees him as the most promising acquisition target.
Trevo Chalobah, belonging to Chelsea, is also mentioned as one of the options. However, Dario Sarnataro of 'Radio Marte' noted that "while there is a possibility of acquiring Chalobah, specific negotiations have not yet been entered."
The recent rumors about Kim Min-jae's return are assessed as "a very unrealistic scenario." Sarnataro explained, "The possibility of Kim Min-jae returning to Napoli is closer to mere imagination. He is currently earning a high salary at Bayern Munich, and in Napoli's defensive plans, Bounjourno is expected to establish himself as the starting left center-back. Napoli is rather looking for resources for a right center-back."
The re-emergence of Kim Min-jae's name in reports related to strengthening Napoli's defense is interpreted as reflecting the ongoing disappointment and expectations of Napoli fans. Kim Min-jae played a key role in leading Napoli to the Serie A championship in the 2022-2023 season but left the team after transferring to Bayern shortly after winning the Italian league.
After just one season at Bayern, his position has been shaken, and with rumors of transfers to leagues such as Saudi Arabia's Al Nassr developing after the end of the 2024-2025 season, the possibility of a return has been mentioned.
Locally, it has been stated that "the likelihood of Kim Min-jae rejoining Napoli is nearly nonexistent, and this is merely a hope mixed with fans' expectations." Napoli is prioritizing the acquisition of Beukema and plans to respond in the summer transfer market.
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