The 'iron pillar' Kim Min-jae (28, Bayern Munich) is once again being considered for a move to Turkey. Along with his former club Fenerbahçe, Galatasaray has also joined the bidding for Kim Min-jae, making his future a key issue for the summer transfer market.
Aksam reported on the 14th (Korean time) that "as the summer transfer market gains momentum, big clubs in the Süper Lig are ramping up efforts to acquire stars," stating, "Kim Min-jae is currently a common target for both Galatasaray and Fenerbahçe."
Kim Min-jae received harsh evaluations during the past season in Germany. When he joined Bayern Munich for a transfer fee of €50 million (50 billion won), there were high expectations, but he was criticized for repeating mistakes in crucial matches. TZ pointed out that "Kim Min-jae has not been able to show consistent performances and has lost trust due to critical errors."
Ultimately, it seems that Kim Min-jae has been excluded from being considered a 'core asset' within Bayern Munich. German transfer market specialist Florian Plettenberg stated via social media that "Bayern no longer evaluates Kim Min-jae as an irreplaceable asset" and that "he is currently on the market and the likelihood of a summer transfer is high."
Bayern Munich has also established the transfer fee for Kim Min-jae. They are looking to sell for at least €30 million (48.3 billion won) and up to €35 million (56.4 billion won). The motivation behind this quick sale, even at a loss, is to expedite the reorganization of the squad for the upcoming season.
In this situation, several European clubs have expressed interest in Kim Min-jae. Newcastle United, Chelsea, Juventus, and Barcelona are closely monitoring his situation, while movements around Kim Min-jae have been observed in Turkey as well. In particular, Fenerbahçe, which Kim Min-jae previously played for, has revived rumors of a return.
Kim Min-jae played as a key defender for Fenerbahçe for one year starting in 2021. He was regarded as the best center-back in the league and moved to Napoli, later leading them to Serie A victory and advancing to Bayern Munich. However, his position at Bayern Munich has significantly shaken to the point where a return to his former club is being suggested.
Aksam reported that "Galatasaray has already sent an official transfer offer to Bayern for Kim Min-jae" and added that "Fenerbahçe is also expected to request negotiations soon." Galatasaray is currently finalizing the acquisition of Victor Osimhen from Napoli and is setting Kim Min-jae as their next target.
Meanwhile, Kim Min-jae started his professional career with Jeonbuk Hyundai and has played for Beijing Guoan, Fenerbahçe, Napoli, and Bayern Munich. He has recorded a total of 283 professional matches with 10 goals and 5 assists, lifting trophies in K League 1, Serie A, and Bundesliga. Last season, he ranked 22nd for the Ballon d'Or, raising the status of Asian defenders.
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