Man Utd 'hold talks' with 'KEEN' target as move edges closer

Tom Weber

• Updated: 12 May 2023 16:58 BST
• 3 min read

Manchester United's move for Napoli star Kim Min-jae is inching closer, according to reports.

The Red Devils are keen to continue their revolution under Erik ten Hag, which includes being more ruthless in the transfer market. Indeed, United already appear more cunning in their business and they are apparently moving swiftly to secure one of their priority targets.

Though not the biggest problem area in the squad - that is still the centre-forward position - United's central defence is also a department that needs strengthening. Though Victor Lindelof has mostly been solid when deputising for the injured Lisandro Martinez and Raphael Varane, there is no guarantee that he will still be at Old Trafford next season.

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The same can be said for Harry Maguire. The club captain has fallen down the United pecking order, with Ten Hag's staff reportedly convinced that he is not good enough to compete at the highest level anymore, and he appears to be on his way out. This means that the Red Devils will have to add defenders in the summer, though uncertainty over next season's budget could yet throw a spanner in the works.

Nevertheless, they are already making moves for what could be a bargain target.

Keen Min-jae

According to Footmercato, Manchester United have held positive talks with Napoli ace Kim Min-jae. Indeed, negotiations have been so successful that the South Korean giant is said to be 'keen' on a move.

United are reportedly ready to offer him a sizeable wage - which could explain his enthusiasm for a move - but in terms of a transfer fee, Ten Hag could have something of a steal on his hands.

That is because of a unique stipulation in the 26-year-old's contract. It was recently revealed that Kim has a release clause of just €50 million, but this clause will only be active for a few weeks this summer.

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Napoli are, of course, keen to extend his deal and remove this clause, but can he resist the allure of the Premier League?