Kim Min-jae’s time at Bayern Munich could be nearing an end after struggling to earn regular minutes under Vincent Kompany. The former Napoli defender, now behind Dayot Upamecano and Jonathan Tah in the pecking order, has emerged as a target for AC Milan and Juventus ahead of January. However, his €9 million salary could block a Serie A return despite growing frustration in Germany.

Kim's Bayern struggles continue

Once a key figure in Napoli’s Scudetto-winning campaign, Kim’s spell at Bayern has failed to take off as the South Korean defender, who joined for €57 million in 2023, has managed just six appearances this season, totalling 326 minutes. With Tah and Upamecano now the preferred pairing, Kim’s future in Bavaria looks increasingly uncertain. According to journalist Matteo Moretto, the centre-back could be on the move in January if his situation doesn’t improve.

AdvertisementSerie A comback on the cards?

Juventus and AC Milan are among the clubs monitoring "unhappy" Kim’s situation closely. The 29-year-old, nicknamed “The Monster” for his dominant physical style, is viewed as a proven Serie A performer after his stellar year at Napoli. Juve reportedly see him as a potential short-term solution amid Bremer’s ongoing knee issues, while Milan view him as ideal depth to solidify their backline. Kim had previously rejected offers from Saudi Arabia, determined to continue in top-flight European football, making Serie A an appealing destination to relaunch his career.

The major stumbling block remains Kim’s hefty salary as the defender currently earns around €9m annually at the German giants, a figure considered excessive by Italian standards, especially for a centre-back. The Bavarians, while open to a sale or loan, know few clubs outside the Premier League can match those wages. “The biggest obstacle remains his salary,” wrote , noting that any return to Serie A would likely require Kim to lower his financial demands.

World Cup could lead to January transfer

Despite limited game time, Kim Min-jae remains determined to fight for his place at Bayern. As per reports the Korean international insist he “will not give up on the competition,” but the looming World Cup could force a rethink if minutes remain scarce. Regular playing time will be crucial for South Korea’s key defender ahead of next summer’s international commitments. Bayern, however, are wary of losing defensive depth, with only Upamecano, Tah, and Kim forming the senior centre-back rotation under Kompany.

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AFPWinter transfer imminent for Kim?

With the January transfer window approaching, Kim Min-jae’s future is set to dominate headlines again. A return to Italy could revive his form and confidence, but the financial and competitive realities make a deal complex. Bayern are still chasing records in the Bundesliga and Champions League, and letting go of an experienced international mid-season could prove risky. For Kim, the coming weeks may determine whether he stays to fight in Munich, or heads back to Serie A to reclaim his status as one of Europe’s most reliable defenders.