Manchester City won’t let Kim Min-jae (26-Napoli) go purely to a local rival. Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola (52) is keeping an eye on Kim Min-jae.
As Kim Min-jae’s transfer speculation continues to heat up across Europe, Italy’s Corriere dello Sport published a report on July 24 (KST) 메이저놀이터 speculating on the timing and price of Kim’s transfer. The outlet believes Kim will move to Man Utd in early July, with an estimated transfer fee of €58 million (approximately $82.4 billion).
After struggling with a shaky defense this season, United’s top priority is center back. While first-choice center-back Hafa Baran has been steady, he has been limited to 21 league appearances due to frequent injuries. Lisandro Martinez, who joined United this season, has been out for the season with a broken metatarsal. Harry Maguire, who has been with the club for a long time, has become a ‘liability’, making mistakes at crucial moments. This is why United need Kim Min-Jae.
The Italian newspaper Il Mattino recently reported that Kim has bought a house in Manchester, England. “He has signed a contract for a luxury villa in the Alderley Edge neighborhood of Manchester,” the publication said.
However, there are no guarantees in the summer transfer market, where every second counts. We’ll have to wait and see until the player’s ‘wardrobe reveal’. In the meantime, it has been reported that City are not letting up on their pursuit of Kim Min-jae. “Manchester City are keeping a close eye on the situation surrounding Kim Min-jae ahead of the summer transfer window,” according to ‘Manchester City News,’ which covers City news.
“Guardiola already has a solid squad of center backs in place. However, he is looking to add ‘one more’ in the summer.” “City are willing to pay up to 60 million euros ($85.3 million) for Kim Min-jae,” the report continued.
The outlet praised Kim’s stats this season, noting: “Kim, who led Napoli to the Serie A title, has made 34 league appearances this season. The 26-year-old has made 112 clearances, the most on the team. His tackles and interceptions combined totaled 95.”
Napoli coach Luciano Spalletti’s past interviews are also included. “Kim Min-jae does at least 20 amazing things every game. When he gets the ball and starts running, he reaches the opponent’s penalty area in five seconds,” Spalletti said.
“It’s easy to see why Napoli want to hold on to him and why half of Europe wants to sign him,” the outlet said. “It won’t be easy for Guardiola to bring in Kim, given the interest from several teams. However, if he wants to strengthen his defense next season, it’s best to bring in Kim Min-jae.”