Reports coming out of Germany are suggesting that Newcastle United are keeping a close eye on the situation surrounding Bayern Munich defender Kim Min-jae as more rumours are uncovered that he could be destined for a summer move.
The South Korean has been a regular starter for the Bavarian giants this season and it appears the no nonsense centre back could be on the lookout for a new challenge outside of the Bundesliga with the Magpies expressing their interest.
The 28-year-old joined Bayern from Napoli after being a key part of their league winning side last summer and soon became a staple of the German side's backline making 42 appearances this season.
Eddie Howe has been quietly building a squad full of world-class talent with a player of Kim's calibre offering a quick way of studying up Newcastle's defence and making them even harder to beat going forward.
According to transfer guru and Sky Germany reporter Florian Plettenberg, Kim could be on his way out this summer if a suitable offer arrives.
Plettenberg reports that the defender knows clubs are interested but is waiting until the summer before any concrete talks, he added: "He is aware of the situation but remains fully focused on the title race."
According to the journalist, Newcastle's interest in the defender has been confirmed, but they're not the only ones in the race for his signature, with Chelsea also rumoured to be preparing an offer.
Keen to see him back in the Serie A, Juventus are also said to be monitoring the situation to see if an opportunity presents itself.
Whether Kim Min-jae would be open to a move to St James' Park remains to be seen but already being a starter at one of Europe's elite clubs, Newcastle would likely need to secure a place in the Champions League to even be in with a chance of bringing him onboard.
The South Korean reportedly has a release clause of €110 million euros making him one of the most expensive defenders in the world, although in reality Bayern would accept offers much lower than that.
The Bavarians paid a modest €50 million back in 2023 but with his current TransferMarkt valuation at €45 million an offer similar to their initial fee is the most likely.
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