Arsenal have added Bayern Munich defender Kim Min-jae to their January transfer shortlist as injuries force the Premier League champions to reassess their options at centre-back.
Interest in the South Korea international has been renewed following Piero Hincapie’s injury, while William Saliba is also sidelined. Hincapie’s recovery period remains uncertain, potentially increasing Mikel Arteta’s need for an experienced addition when the transfer window opens.
Kim Min-jae on Arsenal’s transfer list
German transfer insider Christian Falk said Arsenal are seriously monitoring Kim’s position at Bayern Munich.
“Min-jae Kim is officially on Arsenal’s list,” Falk said, linking the club’s interest in the defender partly to Hincapie’s injury.
Kim is already familiar to Arsenal’s recruitment department. Head scout Maurizio Micheli was involved in identifying him during his time at Napoli, where the defender helped the club win Serie A.
The centre-back remains under contract with Bayern until 2028, although uncertainty surrounds his longer-term future at the German club. Bayern are expected to hold talks with Kim before deciding whether to offer him a new deal or consider a sale.
Arsenal would be seeking a player capable of making an immediate contribution rather than another long-term project. Kim’s pace, strength in duels and ability to defend high up the pitch would suit Arteta’s tactical approach.
During Kim’s time at Napoli, manager Luciano Spalletti described him as “the best centre-back in the world” and said he produced “at least 20 incredible things per game”.
Whether Bayern would approve a January transfer remains unclear. Arsenal’s need could become more pressing depending on Hincapie’s diagnosis, but the club will still have to decide whether Kim is available at a sensible price.
