Man Utd face Kim Min-jae transfer trouble as doubt cast over ‘release clause’

Manchester United could be bound for an obstacle in their pursuit of centre-back Kim Min-jae. With Erik ten Hag keen to swoop for the Napoli star by activating his release clause, the Azzurri have reportedly responded by tabling a new contract offer which may throw a spanner in the works.

Kim started all bar three of Napoli’s Serie A games this season as they stormed to a first league title in over 30 years. With United looking for defensive reinforcements, Ten Hag has reportedly made him a top target.

Newcastle United are also in the hunt, with suitors believing that the South Korean could be attainable for a release clause set at just under £50million. However, The Telegraph claim that no formal bids have been lodged as yet.

And Napoli have responded to the serious interest shown in their star defender by offering him a new contract, which would render his current release clause obsolete.

If the contract offer is accepted, the Italian giants would be in a position to hike up the asking price as they wish, forcing United into a tricky situation. It remains to be seen whether their interest in Kim would remain, or whether the development would prompt the Red Devils to pursue alternative options.

There is currently no indication as to whether Kim would be open to signing the new deal on offer at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona. Various reports claim that the centre-back’s move to Old Trafford is merely a matter of details as many details have already been agreed behind the scenes.

Many United fans are growing concerned that the club’s drawn-out takeover fiasco will negatively impact Ten Hag’s summer transfer plans. Sir Jim Ratcliffe and Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad Al Thani are still awaiting a final decision from the Glazers on whose takeover bid has been successful.

Sheikh Jassim’s proposal is thought to include significant funds for investment in recruitment and infrastructure, and he submitted a final offer earlier this week in an effort to sew up the deal before the transfer window officially opens.