Manchester United reignite Kim Min-jae pursuit

Manchester United have reportedly set their sights on a deal for Napoli centre-back Kim Min-jae.

The Red Devils may be looking for a new defender this summer as the futures of Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof are uncertain.

The pair have fallen down the pecking order following the arrival of Lisandro Martinez, who has formed a strong central defensive partnership with Raphael Varane.

With limited playing time, Maguire may seek regular playing time elsewhere while Lindelof has settled for a fringe role. Therefore, Man United are considering recruiting replacements and has identified Kim as a potential transfer target.

According to Corriere dello Sport via Inside Football, the Mancunian giants are pushing ahead with plans to sign Kim this summer and preparing to submit a bid of €60m for the South Korean international.

Although Kim Min-jae has a contract with Napoli until June 2025 with an option for two more years, he has a release clause that becomes active between July 1 and July 15 this year. There is a belief that Manchester United’s proposed offer would be similar to or close to the buyout clause in the defender’s contract. However, they may face competition from Tottenham Hotspur, who are also reportedly interested in Kim.

The 26-year-old has made 42 appearances in all competitions. He has played a significant role in helping the club end their 33-year wait for the Serie A title this season.

Manchester United, on the other hand, are currently in fourth place in the Premier League table, with a one-point gap over fifth-placed Liverpool, who have played two more games than the Red Devils.