Football News: Kim Min-jae to join Manchester United at start of July

Kim Min-jae, a Napoli center-back, is expected to join Manchester United at the start of July.

In recent months, there has been continual speculation about the South Korean international's future, with his performance throughout the 2022-23 season attracting the attention of a number of large clubs.

Kim played 35 times for Napoli during their Serie A title-winning season, scoring twice and contributing two assists, and he appeared nine times in the Champions League as the Italian giants reached the quarter-finals.

PSG have recently been extensively connected with the 26-year-old, while Newcastle United allegedly held contact with the defender's representation towards the end of last season.

Man United, on the other hand, are considered the favourites for the South Korean, and a move to Old Trafford will be made official on July 1, according to Il Mattino.

According to the article, Kim would earn almost £9 million per year with the 20-time English champions, who are poised to exercise a release provision in his contract.

The purported buy-out cost is £42 million, which goes into effect at the beginning of July, implying that a deal will not be completed until next month, despite the fact that the transfer season is already officially open.

The defender joined Napoli from Turkish giants Fenerbahce last summer, after previously playing for Gyeongju KHNP, Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors, and Beijing Guoan.

Man United's defence is now well-stocked, with Lisandro Martinez and Raphael Varane creating an effective pairing throughout much of the 2022-23 season.

Victor Lindelof also impressed near the end of last season, with Martinez's foot ailment allowing the Sweden international to play more games.

Luke Shaw was also utilised as a central defender, and recent rumours say that Harry Maguire wants to stay and compete for a starting spot at Old Trafford next season.

However, Maguire is anticipated to leave this summer, as the club captain is not in head coach Erik ten Hag's plans, while Phil Jones' exit is already guaranteed.

Axel Tuanzebe is reportedly expected to depart, as is Eric Bailly, who spent last season on loan with Marseille, leaving space in the team for Kim to join next month.

Man United are also looking to add a center-forward and a central midfielder this summer, while at least one goalkeeper is expected to join, given David de Gea's current contract expires on June 30.

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