Newcastle United are reportedly keen on signing Bayern Munich’s defender Kim Min-jae, with sources indicating that the South Korean could be allowed to leave this summer.
While a final decision is still pending, CaughtOffside reports that the Bundesliga champions have reduced their asking price from around €50 million [$57m] to nearly €35 million [$39m], and the 28-year-old center-back is open to a move, with a preference for joining the Premier League if he exits the Allianz Arena.
But the Magpies aren’t the only club interested in the Bundesliga star, Liverpool have rekindled their interest too, having tracked him during his Napoli days, while Chelsea are also exploring him as a defensive target.
However, Newcastle have emerged as one of the most serious suitors, with initial talks already held.
Kim, who joined Bayern last summer, remains highly rated for his strength, aerial dominance, and experience, with the Magpies seeing him as a major addition to their backline, particularly with European competition in sight.
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Why Newcastle Are Interested in Kim Min-jae
The former scout, Mick Brown, who was speaking to Football Insider last month, outlined Newcastle’s reasoning and defensive needs.
“Newcastle want to push on from the position they’re in. They’ve done very well recently, finally won a trophy, and look like they’ll get into the Champions League (which they have).
But Eddie Howe still feels they need to strengthen their options at the back.”
“Sven Botman has been unlucky with injuries, Dan Burn has been fantastic, but he’s not a European-level defender, and Fabian Schar isn’t getting any younger.
So it’s an area Newcastle feel they could improve in, and they want to do that this summer.”
“He would bring a lot of know-how and elite-level experience to this Newcastle side, which is always a huge asset for any team.
Plus, he’s a solid defender, and I think he’d be interested in a move to the Premier League, so I think he’s going to be one they look to get over the line.
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