The former Napoli South Korean defender has never managed to establish himself in the Bundesliga and could return to Italy to feel like a protagonist again.

Sometimes they come back: from the Bundesliga to Serie A and vice versa in just over two years. This could happen to Kim Min-jae, the South Korean defender formerly of Napoli, now at Bayern Munich. The most expensive Asian footballer ever (€57 million release clause) after an unforgettable season at Napoli (2022-23) crowned with the Scudetto, he quickly fell into oblivion in Germany. The center back was already on the market in the summer, a situation that — barring any upsets in the next two months — will repeat itself in January. Juventus (which is also considering Skriniar) and Milan could make a move for him: the former to replace Bremer, who is out for further knee surgery, and the latter to complete their defense.

Kim turned down Saudi Arabia in the summer because he wants to remain in top-flight football, and Serie A could be the ideal place for him to relaunch his career. So far, he has made six appearances for a total of 326 minutes, with Tah and Upamecano ahead of him and little prospect of playing a leading role this season. Bayern Munich would gladly let him go, but the main obstacle remains his salary: $9 million is too much for the big Italian clubs, especially for a defender. Therefore, the South Korean, nicknamed “The Monster” for his physical prowess, will have to resign himself to lowering his demands if he wants a change of scenery and to regain playing time and consistency.