Napoli defender Kim Min-jae could become the subject of a very late transfer approach from Manchester City despite being close to signing for Bayern Munich.
That’s according to a recent report from Football Insider, who claims Pep Guardiola’s treble-winning Cityzens are tempted by the prospect of hijacking Bayern Munich’s efforts to sign South Korea’s Kim.
Helping to guide Napoli to their first Serie A title since 1990 last season, Kim, 26, has established himself as one of Europe’s leading central defenders.
Consequently, with a release clause believed to be worth around a modest £50m set to activate next month, Napoli’s number three has been in demand.
ElsewҺeгe, City are expected to announce the arrival of Mateo Kovacic at the beginning of next week. The Croatian has agreed personal terms with the club and a fee in the region of £30m has been agreed between the clubs. It was reported on Friday that the player was undergoing his medical, and the 29-year-old’s arrival should bolster Guardila’s options in the centre of the park.
Kovacic may not be the only midfielder to join this summer and City are exploring the possibility of bringing Declan Rice to the Etihad. The West Ham United captain could be available at around £100m and if City are to acquire the England international they will need to fight off competition from Arsenal.
The treble-winners also plan to make a move for Josko Gvardiol. It’s not believed at this stage that any formal approach has been made for the RB Leipzig centre-back, who it’s reported could cost up to £86m.
After two consecutive summers of record-breaking incomes from transfer fees, and the funds received from winning the Champions League, City are in a position to spend heavily in the market.
