Kim Min-jae is unhappy at Bayern Munich, with rumours now swirling of a return to Serie A. Juventus and Milan are most interested, yet the centre-back’s €9 million net wage could be a real obstacle.

Kim was the most expensive Asian player ever, as Bayern paid a €57 million release clause after an unforgettable 2022-23 season at Napoli saw him help win the Scudetto. The central defender was already on the market this summer and will likely recur again in January.

Juventus, who are also considering Milan Skriniar, want Kim to replace Bremer, who is out due to another knee operation. AC Milan want the 28-year-old to complete the defensive line.

Kim had turned down the Saudi deal in the summer transfer window because he wanted to stay in top-flight football, and Serie A could be the ideal place to relaunch his career. So far, he’s made six appearances for a total of 326 minutes, with Jonathan Tah and Dayot Upamecano ahead of him, and little prospect of a starring season.

Bayern Munich would gladly let him go, but the biggest obstacle remains his salary. The €9 million per year is too much for the big Italian clubs, especially for a defender. Therefore, the South Korean, nicknamed “The Monster”, will have to resign himself to lowering his expectations if he wants a change of scenery and regaining playing time and consistency.