Kim Min-jae Faces Uncertain Future as Salary Complicates AC Milan and Juventus Moves

Key Takeaways:

• Kim Min-jae has made just six appearances this season for Bayern Munich, totalling 326 minutes
• Juventus and AC Milan are tracking Kim ahead of the January window, but his €9 million annual salary poses a significant hurdle
• Bayern are open to a sale or loan, though few clubs outside the Premier League can match Kim’s current wages

Bayern Munich Struggles Limit Kim’s Playing Time

Kim Min-jae, who joined Bayern Munich from Napoli for €57 million in 2023, has found regular opportunities hard to come by under Vincent Kompany. The South Korean international is now behind Dayot Upamecano and Jonathan Tah in the defensive pecking order, resulting in just six appearances and only 326 minutes on the pitch so far this campaign. This lack of involvement has led to speculation about his future in Bavaria, with journalist Matteo Moretto suggesting a January departure could be possible if his prospects do not improve.

🚨🌕🇰🇷 | 𝑳𝑨𝑻𝑬𝑺𝑻: #ACMilan made an enquiry for Kim Min-jae during the summer. 👀

The South Korean defender earns a high salary but hasn’t found much space at Bayern Munich — he could become an interesting name for January. 🔴⚫️

🗞: @MatteMoretto pic.twitter.com/R6ZLUZfCAm

— Milan Xtra (@MilanXtra) October 14, 2025

Serie A Sides Eye Potential January Move

AC Milan and Juventus are closely monitoring the situation of the defender. Known for his impressive contribution to Napoli’s successful Scudetto challenge, Kim, now 29, is valued for his Serie A pedigree. Juventus are assessing him as a potential stop-gap solution amid continued knee issues for Bremer, while Milan consider him ideal for strengthening their defensive depth. Despite previously turning down lucrative approaches from Saudi Arabia, Kim remains keen on continuing at the highest level in Europe, making a Serie A return a logical next step if he decides to move.

Financial Challenges Threaten Serie A Return

A considerable obstacle stands in the way of this transfer: Kim’s current salary stands at approximately €9 million per year, a figure regarded as excessive by most Italian clubs, particularly for a centre-back. While Bayern Munich are receptive to a loan or permanent sale, matching his existing wages is likely to be feasible only for Premier League sides. As noted by La Gazzetta dello Sport, “The biggest obstacle remains his salary,” suggesting that any return to Italy would require Kim to accept a significant pay cut.

International Commitments Add to January Transfer Pressure

Although Kim insists he “will not give up on the competition” at Bayern, the approaching World Cup has heightened the importance of regular first-team football. With South Korea relying on their defensive stalwart, securing minutes ahead of next summer’s tournament is critical. Despite this, Bayern will be wary about letting Kim go mid-season, with only Upamecano, Tah, and Kim himself offering senior centre-back options for Kompany amid a congested fixture list.

What Lies Ahead for Kim Min-jae?

As the January transfer window draws near, speculation about Kim Min-jae’s next move is set to intensify. While a return to Serie A could help reinvigorate his career, the challenge of aligning financial expectations with Italian football realities remains. Bayern Munich, competing on multiple fronts in the Bundesliga and Champions League, must weigh the risk of losing a seasoned international. The coming weeks promise to be decisive for Kim, who must choose between battling for his place in Munich or seeking a fresh opportunity to reaffirm his reputation among Europe’s elite defenders.