Aheed Abrar
Napoli defender Kim Min-jae unhappy with transfer speculation amidst Manchester United links
South Korea international Kim Min-jae is unhappy about the rumours of a move away from Napoli amidst links to Manchester United. The 26-year-old is appalled by the suggestions of him leaving the Partenopei.
The centre-back joined the Serie A outfit from Turkish side Fenerbahce in the recent transfer window. He has been in fine form for this season’s leaders in the Italian top flight.
Speaking to Korean TV Show You Quiz, as per Calciomercato (h/t Manchester Evening News), Min-jae stated that he was aware of the rumours. However, the centre-back does not understand the stories surrounding his future at Napoli.
“There are a lot of transfer stories around me, but I’ve only been at Napoli for six months. I’ve avoided interviews, and one of the reasons [is] that the rumours about me disturb me.”
The Partenopei are flying high at the moment. They are first in Serie A, eight points ahead of reigning champions AC Milan. The Italian giants also finished top of their group in the Champions League and will face Eintracht Frankfurt in the round of 16.
Napoli have not lost a single game in the league in the current campaign. Their South Korean defender has been key for Lucia Spalletti this season. He has made 20 appearances in all competitions, scoring two goals.
The 26-year-old also featured for his national side at the 2022 World Cup. However, the Taegeuk Warriors were beaten soundly by Brazil in the round of 16.
United have a stacked backline at the moment. Raphael Varane and Lisandro Martinez have formed a solid partnership in our defence. The duo have also made it to the World Cup final with their respective teams.
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Erik ten Hag can also call upon Hary Maguire. While the 29-year-old has lost his place in the team, the defender’s performances in Qatar for England were encouraging. Victor Lindelof is another option at the gaffer’s disposal.
Thus, for now, the Old Trafford side have enough depth in the centre-back areas. However, if any one of the aforementioned defenders were to leave the Manchester-based club, Min-jae could be a decent option to look at.
