Kim Min-jae (30)'s future at Bayern Munich is once again unsettled. In Germany, the atmosphere is treating a possible transfer this summer as a foregone conclusion. This time, there are reports that even his former club Fenerbahçe SK is moving actively.
German magazine Kicker reported on the 24th (Korean time), "Kim Min-jae is one of the players Bayern Munich would be willing to sell this summer if an appropriate offer arrives."
The outlet said, "A new door could open for Kim Min-jae. Not only Italian clubs but Fenerbahçe have shown strong interest in acquiring him, and talks have already been held."
It added, "Bayern Munich is demanding about 25 million euros (about 44 billion won) for Kim Min-jae's transfer fee," while also explaining, "however, if he moves to Türkiye, Kim Min-jae will likely have to accept a pay cut."
Kim Min-jae left SSC Napoli in 2023 and joined Bayern Munich. This season his standing has been somewhat shaken.
With injuries and poor form overlapping, a competition emerged with Dayot Upamecano and Jonathan Tah, and his playing time decreased as the season progressed. He ultimately remained on the bench and did not play in the DFB-Pokal final.
Despite that, Kim Min-jae recorded 37 official matches, 1 goal and 1 assist this season. He contributed to Bayern's league and cup victories, helping the club achieve the double.
Recently, a return to Serie A has been consistently mentioned. Given the dominant performances he put on during his time at Napoli, his evaluation in Italy remains high.
In this situation, Fenerbahçe has officially entered the race. Kim Min-jae starred for Fenerbahçe in the 2021-2022 season, appearing in 40 official matches and making his name known in European football.
However, salary is a variable. Kim Min-jae currently receives a high wage at Bayern. Kicker foresaw that a pay cut would be unavoidable if he moved to Türkiye.
In the end, the key is Bayern's decision. In Germany, with Bayern leaving open the possibility of reshaping the defense this summer, the view is increasingly growing that Kim Min-jae is not an entirely untouchable asset.
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