Liverpool are interested in Napoli defender Kim Min-Jae, will face competition
According to Tg Sport, via Calcio Napoli 24 (h/t Liverpool Echo), Liverpool are among the clubs interested in signing Napoli defender Kim Min-Jae. Manchester United and Paris-Saint Germain are other clubs in the race to sign the South Korean international.
Min-Jae, who arrived at Napoli from Fenerbahce last summer, has become one of the best defenders in Europe this season. His current contract with the Serie A leaders expires in the summer of 2025 (Transfermarkt).
Because of his excellent performances, Napoli are looking to offer a new improved deal to the 26-year-old. Part of the reason is that his current contract has a release clause of around €50m-€70m which can be triggered by any club to sign him.
The Italian side would be aiming to not just extend his contract, but also remove the release clause to keep his value intact at the club.
From Liverpool’s viewpoint, we would hope that Min-Jae’s contract continues to have a release clause, which helps in pre-gauging how much the player would cost if the Reds decide to make a move for him.
There is a strong possibility that Joel Matip will be sold this summer. The former Schalke defender anyway has his contract expiring in 2024. It seems like the club aims to cash in on him rather than letting him go for free.
Once that sale happens, Liverpool would need a new centre-back in the transfer window. They have been linked with the likes of Antonio Silva, who is one of the best young defenders in the continent.
Min-Jae though has the experience and is a player of high quality. The Korean international is certain to be a Serie A winner this season along with going deep in the Champions League. He did well in the World Cup too.
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Although it looks unlikely that Napoli will let him go in the summer, Liverpool should sign him if the stance changes.
