BY G9IJA
Manchester United are in advanced talks with the representative of Napoli star Kim Min-jae ahead of a potential summer transfer, according to Corriere dello Sport (page 16).
The South Korean star has been a revelation for the Serie A outfit since his move from Fenerbahce last summer and he could leave the club after just one campaign.
He currently has a release clause between €50-60 million valid for foreign clubs and United are ‘ready’ to trigger it when it becomes active between July 1 and 15.
The club are already in advanced negotiations with the player’s entourage and it is added that Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis can’t prevent him from leaving.
However, the Napoli owner is adamant that he does not want to lose Victor Osimhen this summer.
Man Utd looking to beat competition to Min-jae
Min-jae is currently one of the most sought-after central defenders in the world.
The 26-year-old has been tremendous for Napoli in their title-winning campaign. He has completed 91 per cent of his passes while winning 1.6 tackles and 4.7 duels per game.
The centre-back has also made close to four clearances on average. Hence, he is playing to the best of his abilities and would be a fantastic acquisition for United this summer.
Apart from the Red Devils, Manchester City are also interested in his services but United probably have the upper hand as they could offer him with more consistent minutes.
While Min-jae could play in regular rotation at the Etihad Stadium, he could be an assured starter at Old Trafford ahead of Raphael Varane, who has been largely injury-prone.
We still believe Champions League qualification could be a key factor. United must finish in the Premier League top four to put themselves in the driving seat to sign Min-jae.