Report: Tottenham Eye Summer Move for Bayern Munich’s Kim Min-jae as Defender Considers Premier League Switch
South Korean international Kim Min-jae is once again at the centre of transfer speculation, with growing reports suggesting he could be on his way out of Bayern Munich during the current summer transfer window. The 28-year-old centre-back has reportedly attracted serious interest from Premier League giants Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea, according to CFBayernInsider.
Kim, who joined Bayern from Napoli in the summer of 2023, arrived in Bavaria on the back of a stellar campaign in Serie A where he played a pivotal role in Napoli’s title-winning side. Despite high expectations, his debut season in Germany has not gone as smoothly as hoped. While he has featured regularly, he is not viewed as an indispensable part of the first-team squad under the current Bayern hierarchy. With the Bavarian club reportedly looking to revamp their defensive setup, Kim may find himself slipping further down the pecking order in the upcoming campaign.
As a result, the towering defender is believed to be open to a move elsewhere if regular playing time is not guaranteed. This has opened the door for potential suitors, particularly in England, where his blend of physicality, tactical awareness, and experience could be a valuable asset.
Spurs Looking to Bolster Defensive Ranks
Tottenham Hotspur, under the leadership of Ange Postecoglou, are known to be in the market for defensive reinforcements. While the North London club enjoyed periods of strong form last season, defensive frailties were exposed on several occasions. Bringing in a player of Kim Min-jae’s calibre could add much-needed depth and stability to the backline.
At 28, Kim is in the prime of his career and possesses the physical strength, composure, and aerial ability that are well-suited to the demands of the Premier League. His experience at both club and international levels makes him a ready-made option, capable of slotting into a starting role or providing strong competition for existing defenders. If Spurs can negotiate a reasonable fee, the move could represent excellent value for money and significantly boost their defensive setup.
Chelsea Also Monitoring the Situation
Meanwhile, Chelsea are also reportedly monitoring Kim’s situation closely. The Blues have endured a turbulent period in recent seasons, with defensive inconsistency being one of several issues that have plagued the team. With Thiago Silva’s departure and the ongoing need to solidify the backline, adding a reliable and experienced central defender remains a top priority.
Kim’s ability to read the game, initiate attacks from the back, and his calmness under pressure make him an attractive option for Chelsea’s recruitment team. Furthermore, his success in Italy with Napoli and his adaptability in the Bundesliga showcase his versatility and resilience — two qualities that could help him thrive in the fast-paced environment of English football.
A New Challenge on the Horizon?
The player himself may also be keen on a fresh challenge. After conquering Italy and testing himself in the German top flight, a move to the Premier League could represent the next logical step in his career. A new environment, combined with the prestige and competition of the English game, might provide Kim with the platform to further elevate his profile on the global stage.
Former Bayern Munich boss Thomas Tuchel, who worked with Kim briefly, has previously described him as a “very complete” defender — high praise that speaks to his all-around capabilities. The South Korean has already proven himself at multiple levels and could be an immediate upgrade for either Spurs or Chelsea.
As the summer window progresses, all eyes will be on whether either Premier League club makes a concrete move to secure his signature. With his contract status and Bayern’s openness to reshuffling their squad, Kim Min-jae could very well be one of the headline defensive transfers of the summer — and a key addition for a club seeking defensive solidity heading into the 2025/26 campaign.