Napoli defender Kim Min-jae has suggested that he already has agreed to leave the club this summer with Manchester United said to have an agreement in place.
Kim, 26, has been linked with a summer switch to Old Trafford for months despite only moving to Naples last year. The South Korean international enjoyed a tremendous campaign as he starred in the club’s remarkable Serie A title-winning campaign, but his contract contains a release clause that is believed to be £43million.
United boss Erik ten Hag wants to add another elite central defender to his ranks this summer to compete with Raphael Varane and Lisandro Martinez for a starting role – both have had injury issues this campaign. Luke Shaw has often been deployed in the position this season.
A deal for Kim is said by Naples-based Il Mattino to be in place, the player has no doubts about joining United – who simply need to pay his clause. Indeed, Napoli are said to have already lined-up Kevin Danso of Lens as Kim’s replacement.
Kim has now appeared on a South Korean TV programme in which he was jokingly asked about his future, yet his answer was revealing. As cited by Calcio Napoli, the defender was asked who his ‘new club’ would be for the 2023/24 campaign – a sign that he was leaving Napoli.
The defender responded by saying that “you will have to ask my agent, he is outside!” By entertaining the question and not shooting it down, coming amid reports that an Old Trafford switch has already been agreed, is suggestive that a summer transfer is likely.
Have Your Say! Would Kim be an important signing for Man Utd? Tell us what you think here.
Kim is not the only Napoli star on United’s radar. They are also tracking a move for star striker Victor Osimhen, who they believe may be more attainable than Harry Kane and the Nigerian international is also five years younger.
United are clearing the decks somewhat to accommodate a higher level of signing, such as Kim, this summer. Phil Jones and Axel Tuanzebe are both leaving as free agents at the end of their respective contracts with further defenders set to depart.
Club captain Harry Maguire will have any transfer offers listened to by the club, while United are also looking for the permanent exits of Alex Telles and Eric Bailly, who are both returning from loan spells at Sevilla and Marseille respectively.
