Fabrizio Romano says Man Utd are 'big favourites' to sign €50m-rated star
Manchester United are ‘big favourites’ to sign Napoli defender Kim Min-jae during this summer’s transfer window, according to reputed journalist Fabrizio Romano.
The Red Devils have been linked with the South Korean on numerous occasions this month and it has been claimed that he has given the green light for a transfer.
Speaking on his Here We Go Podcast, Romano has now revealed that United are huge favourites to sign the 26-year-old by triggering his release clause of less than €50 million.
However, the Italian added that nothing is concrete at the moment. United’s move for the centre-back depends on the new owners while Napoli have proposed to extend his deal.
He said: “Manchester United are the big favourites to sign Kim Min-jae by paying the release clause. This is the theory of Manchester United but they have not made any concrete bid or concrete step yet because it depends on the new owners first of all.”
“Also Napoli, because Napoli are offering him the chance to stay with a long-term contract and higher release clause. But, Manchester United are there. The clause is not ready now. The clause is only valid in the first days of July and it is a bit less than 50 million euros.”
United must land Min-jae ahead of European rivals
United have been closely following Min-jae from his time in the Chinese Super League and they now have a brilliant opportunity to sign him for an affordable buy-out clause.
However, a deal won’t be straightforward for them. Min-jae’s release clause for foreign clubs will only become active during the first 15 days of July.
Meanwhile, his entourage have hinted that Champions League football could be key. United could also face competition from Manchester City for him.
Hence, United have plenty of work to do to sign him. A deal may also depend on whether the club have a new owner at the helm for the transfer window.
Otherwise, there could be a limited budget this summer. With a marquee striker required, manager Erik ten Hag may not be able to spend big on other signings.
Min-jae would be a terrific purchase due to his sublime ball-playing ability. He has completed 91 per cent of his passes this term, winning 1.6 tackles and 4.7 duels per game.
The South Korean has also made close to four clearances per outing. He is just one of four players in Europe’s top-five leagues to manage more than 3,000 touches.
The defender also possesses a strong physical and aerial presence in the box. Hence, he has all the traits to succeed in the Premier League with the Red Devils next term.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Sofascore.com
The post Fabrizio Romano says Man Utd are 'big favourites' to sign €50m-rated star appeared first on Man Utd News.