Manchester United Interested In This Napoli Defender: Should Ten Hag Bring Him Aboard? | OneFootball

According to a report from Manchester Evening News, Manchester United have been linked to Kim Min-Jae of Napoli, as they are showing keen interest in him. The South Korean international has excelled for Napoli this season, which has sparked widespread speculation about his future.

Min-Jae’s Impressive Numbers For Napoli So Far This Season

Min-Jae is having an inspiring season at the Diego Armando Maradona Stadium but has produced a few impressive performances at the heart of Bilbao’s backline. The 26-year-old has registered two goals in 35 matches for the Italian club during this campaign in multiple competitions.

The South Korean defender has been a rock at the back for his current employers, as he is averaging 1.6 tackles, 1.2 interceptions and 3.9 clearances per game in La Liga. He has been accurate when distributing possession from inside his half after making 90.7% of his attempted passes in the Spanish first division (stats via whoscored).

ULSAN, SOUTH KOREA – MARCH 24: Kim Min-Jae of South Korea in action during the international friendly match between South Korea and Colombia at Ulsan Munsu Football Stadium on March 24, 2023, in Ulsan, South Korea. (Photo by Chung Sung-Jun/Getty Images)

Min-Jae’s contract with Napoli includes an exit clause of 45 million euros, which will apply exclusively to foreign clubs from the summer of 2024 on. Hence, the Red Devils will have to make an enticing offer to get him on board if they wish to sign him at the end of this season.

Should Ten Hag Bring Him To Manchester United?

One of the most notable aspects of Kim Min-Jae’s playstyle is his commanding presence in defence. Standing at 6 feet 3 inches (1.90 meters) tall, Kim uses his height and strength to great effect when battling for aerial duels and clearing dangerous balls. His ability to win headers consistently has made him a formidable opponent for attacking players and a valuable asset for Napoli’s defensive strategy. Furthermore, Kim is comfortable receiving the ball under pressure and distributing it effectively to his teammates.

The South Koren centre-back often steps in to intercept passes and dispossess attackers with well-timed challenges. He isn’t afraid of putting his foot into a tackle and does well to clear his lines when he senses danger from the opposition.

We can expect Min-Jae to add more bite and steel to United‘s backline and increase competition for places within their match-day squad. He has got the experience to serve as a regular member of Erik ten Hag‘s team and won’t take any time settling into life at Old Trafford. Hence, ten Hag should definitely try to lure him in this summer, as he is well-suited for the Red Devils.