Manchester United scouts Kim Min-jae during World Cup as defensive pursuit lingers

Manchester United’s scouting department has its eyes on Kim Min-jae again. The South Korean center-back, now firmly established at Bayern Munich, is being monitored by United during the 2026 World Cup, continuing a pursuit that dates back nearly four years without producing a single formal bid.

A long history of window shopping

United’s interest in Kim is not new. The club first started tracking the defender during the 2022 FIFA World Cup, when the South Korean international was turning heads with commanding performances on the global stage.

At the time, Kim was playing for Napoli, where he had become one of Serie A’s most dominant defenders, playing an instrumental role in securing the Serie A title in the 2022–23 season. He also made history as the first Asian centre-back nominated for the Ballon d’Or.

By June 2023, reports identified Kim as one of Manchester United’s top defensive targets. The club was reportedly aware of his release clause at Napoli, which opened the door to a potential deal.

On July 1, 2023, Kim signed with Bayern Munich on a contract extending through June 30, 2028. United, once again, were left watching a target land elsewhere.

The Bayern Munich problem

Even if United’s interest were to intensify beyond passive observation, the practical obstacles are significant. Kim’s contract at Bayern Munich runs until June 2028, which gives the German club enormous leverage in any negotiation.

What this means for United’s transfer strategy

United’s interest in Kim Min-jae resurfaced periodically across 2025 and into 2026, according to multiple reports. As of June 2026, Kim remains with Bayern Munich and is preparing for the 2026 World Cup with South Korea, with no indications suggesting an active pursuit for his transfer.

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