Mizgan Masani
Napoli could sell Kim Min-Jae if Manchester United are willing to fork out £53m
As per Italian publication Corriere dello Sport (h/t Metro), Serie A champions Napoli would be willing to sell defender Kim Min-Jae, provided Manchester United are ready to fork out £53m for the South Korean.
Napoli are aware of the interest from the Red Devils, but would only sell if a bid as hefty as the price tag comes. Min-Jae has had an exceptional first season in Naples after moving from Turkish side Fenerbahce for £16m last summer.
The South Korean was one of the key players in Napoli’s success this season. Luciano Spalletti talked the defender up as the best in his position a few weeks ago.
The Italian champions are looking to sell the 26-year-old so that they can keep hold of their star forwards Victor Osimhen and Khvicha Kvarakskhelia despite interest from a host of clubs.
If we talk about the options Erik ten Hag has in central defence, we are not sure whether Harry Maguire stays at the club beyond this season. Victor Lindelof’s contract at Old Trafford expires next summer. He might be sold during the coming transfer window. But, there is a case for the Swede getting a new contract too, as reported by Mirror a few days ago. There is a lot that can happen.
Irrespective of that, the manager could do with an addition or two in that department before the start of next season. Luke Shaw has been playing there, but we would like to see him in his natural left-back position more often.
Min-Jae is a physically strong defender who possesses an excellent recovery pace, can pass the ball well, is good at aerial duels, reads the game exceptionally and has recent experience playing for a title-winning side in Italy.
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Bringing that quality and experience would be massive for United. The club should focus on forking out the cash to get the South Korean during the summer window. We can keep relying on Lisandro Martinez and Raphael Varane but another injury to them next season could really destabilise the team.
It is important to have world-class depth at the back. Just look at Manchester City where the world-class Aymeric Laporte is having to struggle for starts.
