Kim Min-jae considers Chelsea switch after Bayern dip | OneFootball

Kim Min-jae transfer latest: Chelsea in talks over Bayern exit

Chelsea open dialogue with Kim Min-jae’s camp

Chelsea have made initial contact with the representatives of Bayern Munich centre-back Kim Min-jae, as the South Korean defender considers a summer departure from the Bundesliga side.

The 27-year-old joined Bayern from Napoli in July 2023 after playing a pivotal role in the Italian club’s Serie A title triumph under Luciano Spalletti. His move to Germany was seen as a major coup, especially given the high demand for his services following a breakout campaign in Naples.

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However, Bayern’s struggles this term — culminating in the end of their 11-year Bundesliga dominance at the hands of Bayer Leverkusen — have sparked fresh uncertainty around Kim’s future. According to Foot Mercato, the defender has “opened the door to a summer exit” and is believed to be evaluating options outside of Germany.

Chelsea are understood to have made their interest known, joining Newcastle United in registering early conversations with Kim’s representatives. There is also interest from an unnamed Serie A club, but the Premier League is reportedly “among his top choices”, with Kim said to be “favouring a move to a new league”.

Photo: IMAGO

Premier League suitors circle as Bayern project stalls

Kim’s experience in Europe’s top leagues and his commanding presence at the back have not gone unnoticed. Bayern signed him after activating a €50 million release clause, with the expectation that he would anchor their defence for years to come. Despite flashes of excellence, the team’s collective regression has prompted introspection.

Newcastle, it’s worth noting, previously attempted to hijack Kim’s move to Bayern. At the time, TEAMtalk reported that the Magpies were keen, but the player “had no interest in moving to Newcastle”. Whether his stance has changed remains unclear, but the project at St James’ Park has evolved significantly since then.

Chelsea, meanwhile, are rebuilding under incoming manager Enzo Maresca and see Kim as a potential cornerstone in a refreshed backline. His ability to play in a high defensive line and his aerial dominance suit the profile of defender the Blues are targeting.

Kim Min-jae decision looms as Chelsea pursue defensive targets

Kim is not the only centre-back on Chelsea’s radar. Bournemouth’s Dean Huijsen, currently on loan from Juventus, is also being monitored. TEAMtalk reports that the Blues are “confident they’ll win the race” to sign the Dutch teenager, despite competition from Liverpool.

Elsewhere, the West London club reportedly made exploratory contact with Virgil van Dijk before he committed to a new contract at Liverpool. The Reds’ decision to retain their captain closed that particular door, but it demonstrates Chelsea’s intent to reinforce their defence with proven quality.

Enzo Maresca is also believed to be pushing for the acquisition of young forward Liam Delap, currently at Manchester City, as he looks to add cutting edge to his attacking line.

Meanwhile, Raheem Sterling’s future remains uncertain. The winger is on loan at Arsenal, and there is no clarity on whether the Gunners intend to make the deal permanent.

Summer strategy driven by tactical clarity

Chelsea’s early manoeuvres in the transfer window hint at a structured recruitment plan. Maresca, whose tactical identity is defined by defensive solidity and controlled build-up play, is targeting players who fit a specific mould. Kim Min-jae’s profile aligns with those principles.

The coming weeks will determine whether Chelsea can beat their rivals to his signature. What’s clear is that the club are wasting no time in preparing for a crucial summer of rebuilding.