Manchester United are poised to end their interest in signing Napoli centre-back Kim Min-jae following several months of speculation.
That is according to a report by Football Insider, which claims that the Reds, who plan to recruit a new centre-back this summer, are set to 'pull out of the race' to sign the South Korean international. United want to bring in a new defensive option this summer, though a lot of it rests on them being able to offload either Harry Maguire or Victor Lindelof first.
Lisandro Martinez and Raphael Varane have established themselves as United's first-choice centre-backs over the past year or so and Maguire and Lindelof are both hungry for more game time. In the event of that happening, multiple reports in recent months have touted Kim as a possible replacement.
The 26-year-old joined Napoli from Turkish outfit Fenerbahce last summer and he excelled in his debut season in Italy, producing a collection of star-studded performances to help Napoli scoop the Serie A title. His showings captured plenty of attention from several big-name clubs.
READ MORE: United unhappy with Chelsea over Mason Mount situation
Though United are now reportedly set to pull the plug on their interest, cross-city rivals Manchester City could make a 'late move' for his signature. Bayern Munich, however, remain the favourites to sign him.
Kim made a total of 45 appearances for Napoli during the 2022/23 campaign, chipping in with two goals. He also registered two assists.
Meanwhile, Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly interested in facilitating a transfer for Harry Maguire. New Spurs boss Ange Postecoglou is keen to bring in a new centre-back this summer who can pass and defend.
LondonWorld claims Spurs are considering a move for the United club captain, but that wages could be sticking point. The 30-year-old started just eight Premier League matches last season after losing his starting spot to Lisandro Martinez.
