Napoli have been attached to multiple options to replace Kim Min-Jae, but they haven’t gone all-in on any of them just yet. One of the reasons, other than the difficulties in coming to terms with the respective teams, is that the South Korean hasn’t formally left.
Per La Gazzetta dello Sport, Bayern Munich have until Saturday to trigger his release clause. They’ll play €50M plus taxes. Since the defender is in his home country, completing the medicals and the whole process has been a challenge.
Kim would stay at Napoli if the Bavarians didn’t execute the deal by the end of the week, but it would be a stunning surprise, the outlet adds. Ko Itakura has emerged as the frontrunner to substitute him. However, the Partenopei are still mulling their alternatives. While he’d be less expensive than other candidates, he’ll miss a month due to AFC Asian Cup in January and February. Tottenham are interested in him too, TuttoSport informs.
According to Corriere dello Sport, Konstantinos Mavropanos is a late addition to their shortlist. Their scouts suggested Max Kilman and Robin Le Normand, but they are likely too pricey. Napoli are expected to make their final decision once the departure of Kim is official.
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