Kim Min-jae (29, Bayern Munich) has become highly likely to be available for transfer. Bayern Munich's leadership has indicated that they would allow a transfer if a suitable offer comes.
Bild reported on the 27th (Korea time) that "Bayern Munich's Director General, Max Eberl, is accelerating preparations for the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup while also focusing on squad construction for next season." In addition to strengthening the attacking line, it provided a direct background for changes regarding Kim Min-jae's status by mentioning the possibility of acquiring a center-back.
According to reports, Munich is internally preparing for the scenario of selling Kim Min-jae this summer. They are willing to enter negotiations if a concrete transfer proposal arrives. His injury history is also a variable. Kim Min-jae has been suffering from pain in his left Achilles tendon since October of last year, and his participation in the Club World Cup is currently uncertain. Within Bayern Munich, there is a skeptical view that "if he plays, it might only be possible after the quarter-finals."
Kim Min-jae's uncertain future is drawing attention across Europe and the Middle East. Serie A, Ligue 1, Saudi Arabia, as well as Liverpool, Manchester United, and Newcastle United in the Premier League, are showing interest. Some media outlets have reported that Kim Min-jae is in contact not only with major leagues within Europe but also with the Saudi Arabian league.
Cutoffside noted, "Liverpool and Manchester United are keeping an eye on Kim Min-jae," and explained, "He has struggled to find his place since transferring from Napoli to Bayern Munich, but in the face of increased competition within the team, the outlook is not bright." In particular, the addition of Bayer Leverkusen's starting defender, Jonathan Tah, is pointed out as a decisive factor in diminishing Kim Min-jae's standing.
Bild's Christian Falk stated, "So far, there have been no official offers for Kim Min-jae. Direct negotiations have not taken place between Bayern Munich and the player," and added, "Interest from the Saudi Arabian league exists, and Kim Min-jae himself has not completely ruled out the possibility of a transfer."
Ultimately, Bayern Munich is currently in an "observing" state, but internal judgments have already begun to lean towards a decision. Kim Min-jae's performance last season garnered early expectations, but he has continued to decline after his Achilles injury. Particularly in the second half of the season, there has been a decrease in concentration during games and an increase in mistakes, which is analyzed to have accompanied a drop in the club's confidence in him.
Kim Min-jae transferred from Napoli to Bayern Munich in the summer of 2023, holding the title of Serie A's best defender. However, becoming a 'sale target' after just one year is certainly an exceptional scenario.
Kim Min-jae remains a highly sought-after asset among major league clubs. However, Bayern Munich no longer views him as a 'core' player. If a transfer materializes, it is likely to go beyond the movement of just one player and become a case of consolidating a 'core asset' that has been excluded from the plans.
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