Juventus and Milan eye Kim: Bayern star set for Serie A return | OneFootball

The upcoming January 2026 transfer window could bring a high-level twist involving Juventus, Milan, and Bayern Munich.

Juventus and Milan target Kim: the Bayern defender could make a sensational return to Serie A

According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Kim Min-Jae, former pillar of the Napoli side that won the Italian championship, has caught the attention of the two Italian giants, both determined to strengthen their defense for the second half of the season.

Kim, missing Serie A: the situation at Bayern Munich

The South Korean defender, who arrived in Bavaria in the summer of 2023 after an extraordinary season with Napoli, has never managed to fully establish himself in Bayern’s defensive system. After a first year of ups and downs, the former Fenerbahçe and Napoli player has lost ground in Vincent Kompany’s hierarchy, often finding himself in competition with Upamecano and De Ligt.

The German club does not consider Kim untouchable and, according to the latest rumors, would consider selling him as early as January. Such a decision would pave the way for a possible return to Serie A, where the defender had found consistency, strong performances, and an ideal environment for his characteristics.

Juventus: replacing Bremer is the priority

At Juventus, the management is searching for a center-back of international caliber to compensate for the potential departure of Gleison Bremer, who is increasingly attracting attention from the Premier League. The idea of Kim is particularly intriguing to Cristiano Giuntoli, who knows the player well, having brought him to Napoli in 2022. Considering his experience, leadership, and ability to build from the back, the South Korean’s profile would be perfect for the new Bianconeri technical project. The main obstacle, however, remains his salary of 9 million euros net, a figure currently out of reach for Juventus unless Bayern agrees to share the cost or a loan deal is arranged with part of the salary paid by the Germans.

Milan: Kim to complete Pioli’s defense

Milan is also closely following the situation. The Rossoneri’s defensive unit, already reinforced in recent months with the arrival of promising youngsters, still needs an experienced player capable of leading the line in the most delicate moments. Stefano Pioli appreciates Kim’s versatility, as he can play both in a back four and in a three-man system, and considers him a potential starter alongside Tomori and Gabbia.

The deal, however, is complex: in addition to the high salary, Milan would have to face a market valuation exceeding 40 million euros. Such a figure would make only a costly loan or a deal with an obligation to buy based on appearances possible.

Kim and Italy: a bond never broken

Despite his experience in Germany, Kim Min-Jae maintains a strong bond with Italy and with Naples, the city where he won the Scudetto and the affection of the Azzurri fans. The player has never hidden that he experienced the happiest phase of his career in Serie A and, according to sources close to his entourage, would welcome a return to the Italian league to regain consistency and confidence.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇮🇹 here.