The situation of South Korean defender Kim Min-jae at Bayern Munich has grown increasingly uncertain. BD Cricket reported that despite earlier claims suggesting Kim wanted to remain under Vincent Kompany’s management and fight for his place, the club appears ready to move on. When given opportunities, the center-back struggled to fully convince, and with Kompany himself being a former defender, his decision to approve a sale was based on tactical evaluation rather than emotion.
Bayern are already preparing for defensive reinforcements during the upcoming winter transfer window. Signing Marc Guéhi from Crystal Palace is reportedly a top priority, as the Englishman’s leadership and ball-playing style fit perfectly into Kompany’s system. This development makes Kim’s future in Munich even more complicated. According to BD Cricket, Kim’s representatives are exploring transfer options, and a return to Serie A — where he once shone for Napoli — looks increasingly likely. Italian heavyweights such as Inter Milan, AC Milan, and Juventus have all shown strong interest in securing his signature, offering him a familiar stage to rebuild his reputation.
For Inter Milan, the pursuit of Kim is partly motivated by the need to rejuvenate an aging defense. At 28, he fits the profile for a squad refresh. The relationship between Bayern and Inter has been amicable for years, with previous transfer dealings between the two clubs potentially smoothing negotiations. However, the main stumbling block for Inter remains financial: Kim’s current salary at Bayern is far above what the Nerazzurri can afford. If he truly wishes to join Inter, a significant pay cut would be necessary.
AC Milan face similar constraints. Their wage structure leaves little room for high earners, which means Kim would again have to agree to a reduced salary. Nevertheless, the club’s developing three-at-the-back formation and youthful project could be appealing. With creative midfielders like Luka Modric and Adrien Rabiot rumored to be targets, Milan’s tactical evolution might offer Kim a better platform to rediscover his form. Yet, the absence of Champions League football could be a decisive factor in whether he commits to the Rossoneri’s project.
Juventus, meanwhile, are undergoing a managerial reshuffle and struggling with injuries across their defensive line. Bringing in Kim could provide the stability and experience they desperately need. It would also mark a sentimental return to Italy for the defender, who reached the peak of his career at Napoli, winning the Serie A title before leaving for Bayern due to contract and salary disagreements. Although his earnings in Germany are substantial, his form has declined sharply, leading to criticism from both fans and media.
The coming months could define Kim’s career path. Will he chase high wages in leagues like MLS or Saudi Arabia, or take a pay cut to reignite his career at one of Italy’s northern powerhouses? BD Cricket noted that his recent poor performance for the national team in their heavy defeat to Brazil drew intense criticism back home, suggesting he needs consistent club minutes to regain confidence. With the next World Cup approaching, Kim faces a pivotal decision — one that could determine whether he remains a leading figure for South Korea or fades from the spotlight altogether.