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Manchester City make late bid for Manchester United-linked Kim Min-Jae?

Man City make late bid for Man United-linked Kim Min-Jae?
© Reuters
Manchester City are reportedly ready to get involved in the hotly-contested race to sign Napoli defender Kim Min-jae.

Manchester City have reportedly identified Napoli defender Kim Min-jae as a potential transfer target.

Earlier this month, Pep Guardiola's side completed the Premier League, FA Cup and Champions League treble, with the Spaniard finally delivering the latter after seven years at the club.

However, a number of changes are expected to occur to the first-team squad with midfielder Ilkay Gundogan making a notable exit to Barcelona.

From a defensive standpoint, Kyle Walker and Aymeric Laporte could each depart for pastures new, transfers which would force Guardiola's hand in the transfer market.

If reports are to be believed, RB Leipzig's Josko Gvardiol is Guardiola's priority target, the Croatia international capable of playing at centre-back and left-back.

Manchester City head coach Pep Guardiola on June 10, 2023© Reuters

Nevertheless, according to Football Insider, Guardiola is toying with the idea of getting involved in the race for Kim ahead of next month.

During a two-week period in July, a release clause in the South Korea international's contract will become active, naturally leading to widespread interest.

Bayern Munich are deemed to be the clear favourites to wrap up a deal, recently moving ahead of Manchester United who appeared ready to add Kim to their squad.

As it stands, though, United are restricted in the market due to their ongoing takeover process, and their current efforts are centred on Chelsea playmaker Mason Mount.

Napoli's Kim Min-jae pictured on November 12, 2022© Reuters

City are now seemingly ready to act as Bayern's main competition with the clause - said to be in the region of €50m (£43m) - representing value for money.

The 26-year-old has spent just one year with Napoli, starring in their Serie A title-winning campaign with 35 starts being made in the Italian top flight.

Although Napoli would prefer to retain the services of Kim, they stand to nearly treble their money with Kim costing just €18m less than 12 months ago.

Kim has only spent two years in European football, his first year on the continent coming at Fenerbahce where he made 40 appearances for the Turkish giants.

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