Manchester United close in on deal for Napoli’s 26 y/o stalwart centre-back

NAPLES, ITALY - MAY 07: Kim Min-Jae of SSC Napoli celebrates victory after the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and ACF Fiorentina at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on May 07, 2023 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)

Manchester United are reportedly closing in on a deal for Napoli’s Kim Min-jae. 

According to Naples-based outlet Il Mattino, the Red Devils are finalising the details of Min-jae’s potential switch to Old Trafford almost a year on from his transfer to Napoli.

The South Korean’s exceptional form has been pivotal to Napoli lifting their first Scudetto in 33 years. He picked up 15 clean sheets along the way, as well as two goals and two assists.

It is believed that Min-jae’s release clause is between £43 million and £52 million, though Erik ten Hag’s hands are currently tied when it comes to navigating the transfer market, given the uncertainty of United’s ownership situation.

Maguire set for Old Trafford exit

Still, should a deal be completed, it all but confirms Harry Maguire’s future as a Red.

Min-jae will be utilised in his usual centre-back role along with one of either Raphael Varane or Lisandro Martinez.

Next in the pecking order is a partnership of Victor Lindelof and Luke Shaw at left centre-back, meaning there’s little room for the club captain to be awarded regular game time.

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