In a recent print edition, The Sun (23/4; page 67) mentioned that Manchester City are facing stiff competition for Napoli defender Kim Min-Jae. It is believed that the Mancunian club will have to rival Tottenham Hotspur in the race to recruit the South Korea sensation this summer.
Min-Jae’s Impressive Run Of Form In Italian Football
Min-Jae is enjoying an impressive season in Serie A as he has been responsible for putting in a series of dominant performances for the Naples outfit on the defensive third of the field. The Tongyeong-born talent has made 39 appearances for his current employers during this campaign, registering two goals and two assists across all competitions.
The 26-year-old has given a good account of himself defensively and deserves credit for averaging 1.3 tackles, 2.4 interceptions and 3.6 clearances per 90 minutes in the UEFA Champions League this season. He has even distributed the ball relatively well after making 87.9% of his attempted passes in European football (stats via whoscored).
His current contract at the Italian club is set to run out in the summer of 2025. Thus, it won’t be easy for Man City to win the race for his services in this off-season.
Is Min-Jae A Good Option For Manchester City Boss Pep Guardiola?
Min-jae is a good tackler of the ball and can time his challenges well to secure the ball back for his side inside his half. He is usually quick to spot the danger and doesn’t mind putting his foot through the ball to keep the opposition attackers frustrated when needed.
The South Korean defensive ace is a good passer of the ball as well but would need time to adapt to the physicality and high intensity of English football.
Min-jae would bring more bite and steel to Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola‘s backline. Furthermore, he is good enough to fight for a regular starting spot at the Etihad Stadium next season.
At 26, Min-jae is about to enter his prime which makes him a great option for the Mancunian giants to consider when the transfer window reopens later this summer. However, it remains to be seen whether he can make a smooth transition to life in the Premier League if Guardiola can get a deal done for him this year.
