The race for the player has begun in earnest.
“Not only Manchester United but also Newcastle United are willing to pay a buyout for Kim Min-jae (26, Napoli),” Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano, who is well versed in the transfer market, said on Sept. 29 (KST). The buyout is reportedly worth around 50 million euros ($71.2 million), with a clause that will take effect in July.
He has been one of the best central defenders in the Italian Serie A this season. In 45 appearances, he scored two goals and provided two assists. He didn’t need an adjustment period. Upon arrival, he helped Napoli win their first league title in 33 years.
Naturally, his stock skyrocketed. He quickly attracted interest from big clubs. Man United seemed to be the most advanced in their pursuit of Kim.
It was reported that they had been monitoring him for seven months. First-choice defender Lisandro Martinez has a long-term injury. Rafael Varane has been out of form with frequent nagging injuries. Harry Maguire and Viktor Lindelof are said to be out of form. As a result, they’re keeping a close eye on Kim Min-jae, who has shown ups and downs this season.
However, Newcastle have entered the fray. They were already interested in the player.
They finished the season in fourth place. They qualified for the UEFA Champions League (UCL) with Man United. It was their first time in 21 years. In order to be competitive on the European stage, they need to add more players. That’s why they’re interested in Kim Min-jae. They plan to keep the player who was close to joining Man United.스포츠토토
They are willing to pay a buyout and have the funds to do so. After the team was purchased by the Saudi royal family in 2021, it has grown to have a strong financial base. They’ve made big-name signings like Alexandre Isaacs and Kieran Trippier to improve the quality of the squad. The appointment of Eddie Howe was also a good one, as his tactical savvy turned Newcastle into a league powerhouse.
It’s a two-horse race between Man United and Newcastle. Kim Min-jae is already ready for a hot summer.