"If we bring Kim Min-jae, we can also aim for the Champions League!" The shouts of SSC Napoli fans are echoing once again as the possibility of Kim Min-jae (28, Bayern Munich) transferring this summer is becoming a reality.

Kim Min-jae was a key player in leading Napoli to the Serie A title during the 2022-2023 season. He showcased solid defense in 45 league matches, and he was crowned as the 'Serie A Defender of the Year' by the Italian Football Federation. Bayern Munich acquired him by paying a buyout clause of 50 million euros (about 79 billion won) in just one season.

The highly anticipated first season at Bayern was not easy. He displayed a strong presence early in the season, but as time passed, his concentration waned and he faced physical burdens. Several mistakes in critical matches, including the UEFA Champions League quarterfinals and later league matches, put his position in jeopardy, and eventually, after the winter, he lost his starting spot to Eric Dier.

In the latter half of the season, plagued by injuries, there were instances where Kim Min-jae had to endure pain to play in matches. The newly appointed coach Vincent Kompany considered Kim Min-jae as a starter for the early part of the 2024-2025 season, but after the season ended, the club began to seriously reorganize the defense. Recently, they initiated a defensive line overhaul by acquiring Jonathan Tah from Bayer 04 Leverkusen, which is being perceived as a signal that has direct implications for Kim Min-jae's future.

Amid this, interest from rival clubs in Kim Min-jae continues. French outlet "Foot Mercato" reported on the 11th (Korean time) that "Saudi Arabia's Al Nassr is very actively seeking the acquisition of Kim Min-jae. Discussions with the player and his acquaintances have progressed significantly, and negotiations have entered a deep stage." Al Nassr, a team featuring stars including Cristiano Ronaldo, plans to stabilize their defense by acquiring Kim Min-jae.

Once again, SSC Napoli is being mentioned as a potential destination for Kim Min-jae. Italian media outlet "Area Napoli" reported on the 19th that "Napoli fans are strongly hoping for Kim Min-jae's return," conveying the fans' reactions. Voices in online communities and social media are expressing that "if they bring him, they can also aim for the Champions League" and "if Kim Min-jae is with Buongiorno and Rrahmani, they will have the strongest defense in the league."

This is not simply nostalgia but closely linked to realistic demands for strengthening the squad. Since Antonio Conte's appointment, Napoli has embarked on a squad overhaul aimed at competing at Europe's highest level. President Aurelio De Laurentiis promised, "We will compete in Europe with a strong squad," and recently succeeded in acquiring Kevin De Bruyne to strengthen the midfield. The reinforcement of the defense is also gaining momentum, during which Kim Min-jae's return scenario has emerged.

In fact, Napoli's defense has been evaluated as lacking stability to implement the strong high-pressing back four tactic that Conte desires. Kim Min-jae is already classified as a defender suitable for the high-intensity pressing and line control that Conte pursues, and is considered a key puzzle in building a strong starting eleven.

Italian local analysis also points out that "if they want Kim Min-jae, now is the right time." Bayern is centering on Jonathan Tah for their defensive reorganization and is designing a structure that would not be greatly impacted if Kim Min-jae leaves. On the other hand, Napoli desperately needs to secure a defender who possesses experience, physicality, and tactical understanding.

Moreover, fan movements are also active. Some fans have directly left recruitment requests on President De Laurentiis's account.

Kim Min-jae is still regarded as a defender of European big club standards. At 28, now entering his prime, he may have broader options. He could continue to compete at Bayern, accept an extravagant offer from Al Nassr for a new challenge, or embark on another journey toward the title with Napoli.

The summer transfer clock for Kim Min-jae, connecting Italy, Germany, and Saudi Arabia, has officially begun to move.

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