As the race to sign Kim Min-jae intensifies, it has been claimed that Manchester United are still the closest.
Kim Min-jae is close to Manchester United. Fabrizio Romano, a reporter familiar with the European football transfer market, reported in the British ‘Guardian’ on July 7 (KST), “Manchester United have identified Kim Min-jae as a candidate to strengthen their defense. His buyout clause will be activated in July and they are currently in contact with his agent.”
Kim, who is currently back in South Korea to resolve his military issues, was expected to finalize a deal with United as soon as it was finalized and move to Old Trafford. Daniele Longo, a reporter for Italy’s Calcio Mercato, a highly trusted source on Kim Min-jae transfers, said, “Kim Min-jae is close to joining Manchester United.” Longo had correctly predicted Kim’s transfer to Napoli last summer.
In addition, according to Italy’s Corriere dello Sport, an official announcement will be made as soon as the transfer market opens in July, and it is expected to sign a 4+1 year contract. As such, a move to United seemed likely.
Newcastle United emerged as a contender. The Magpies have improved tremendously since the arrival of Saudi capital and the appointment of Eddie Howe last season. After finishing in the final four and earning a ticket to the UEFA Champions League (UCL), Newcastle plans to invest heavily this summer. As they look to bolster their strengths in defense, Kim Min-jae is on their radar.
Newcastle’s center back line of Sven Boetman and Fabian Schurrle was very solid. With solid support from midfielder Bruno Guimarães and Dan Byrne, who played mostly at left fullback, the defense was the EPL’s lowest conceded team. They only conceded 33 토토사이트 goals in 38 games. That’s tied with EPL champions Manchester City. The solid defense has helped Newcastle pick up point after point. They are looking to add Kim Min-jae to their roster.
The Sun reported on July 7 that “Newcastle secretly want to intercept Man United target Kim Min-jae. Kim’s agent is understood to have held talks with the Newcastle board at the final home game of the season at St James’ Park.” “Newcastle are looking to hijack Kim Min-jae. They will compete with Man United for his signature. Howe is looking to secure a top-class player.”
Even United’s Plan B targets, such as Axel Dias and Benjamin Pavard, were mentioned, tipping the scales in favor of Newcastle.
United are still the favorites. Former lawyer and sporting director Enrico Fedele said, “Dissassi will not affect the imminent signing of Kim Min-jae. There is no need to worry. Kim has already left and is ready to go to England. United can buy two defenders. Too much has been said about the Kim Min-jae signing to call it a simple saga.”
As mentioned, too much has been said to make a move to United less likely, but it’s clear that Newcastle are interested. The Kim Min-jae saga will continue until it is confirmed.