Aston Villa have made enquiries about Bayern Munich defender Kim Min-jae, but the Bundesliga club have no intention of selling the South Korea international.
Journalists Kessler Philipp and Mano Bonke report that Villa have been interested in Kim for several weeks, alongside their interest in Joao Palhinha. The Premier League club’s management first made informal contact with the defender’s representatives during the World Cup, although Kim’s focus at that time was entirely on the tournament.
Villa renewed their interest last week after facing Bayern in a friendly in Hong Kong. Following that match, the English club contacted Kim’s agent to ask about the possibility of a transfer.
However, Kim is not expected to be persuaded to leave Bayern Munich, while the German club have now moved away from the idea of selling him. Bayern manager Kompany values the defender’s qualities and wants him to remain at the club.
Kim had previously turned down approaches from Nottingham Forest and Oliver Glasner. Those decisions further indicate that the 28-year-old is not actively seeking a move, although the latest report does not give details of the terms offered by Villa or the other interested parties.
Bayern’s position means Aston Villa’s interest is unlikely to lead to a transfer unless the German champions change their stance. The club’s decision is also supported by Kompany’s continued appreciation of Kim’s ability and his desire to retain the centre-back.
Villa’s latest enquiry came after the two sides met in Hong Kong, providing an opportunity for the Premier League club to make direct contact with Kim’s representatives. Despite that approach, Bayern’s preference is to keep the player rather than consider offers for him.
Kim joined Bayern’s defensive group as a player the club continues to value, and the reports from Kessler Philipp and Mano Bonke suggest his future is currently expected to remain in Munich. Aston Villa therefore face a difficult task if they attempt to pursue the defender further, with Bayern Munich not presently prepared to negotiate his departure.
