Liverpool are reportedly weighing up a potential move for Bayern Munich defender Kim Min-jae, as the Premier League champions look to bolster their backline ahead of the 2026 season. The South Korean international, valued at around £44 million, has emerged as a target as part of the club’s wider search for defensive reinforcements.
Over the past few months, Liverpool have been linked with several centre-backs, including Marc Guehi, Nico Schlotterbeck, Taras Mykhavko, and Diogo Leite. Now, according to journalist Dean Jones (via The Boy Hotspur), Kim has been added to that list, with Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur also monitoring his situation closely.
Kim Min-jae’s Situation at Bayern Munich
Since joining Bayern Munich, Kim has faced challenges in securing consistent playing time under new manager Vincent Kompany. Reports suggest that while Bayern are not actively seeking to offload him, the club may be open to reconsidering his future in 2026, depending on his performances and squad balance.
A transfer next summer appears more plausible than a January move, though Kim is said to remain fully committed to regaining his starting role at the Allianz Arena.
Why Liverpool Are Interested
Liverpool’s interest in Kim comes at a time when questions are being raised over the club’s defensive depth and the unresolved contract situation of Ibrahima Konaté. The Reds have struggled defensively in recent weeks, prompting speculation that defensive reinforcements could be a top priority when the transfer window reopens.
At 6ft 2in, Kim Min-jae offers a commanding physical presence — a quality Liverpool have been lacking in certain high-pressure situations, particularly from set pieces. Known for his calmness under pressure, Kim has been praised by analysts for his ability to remain composed and make intelligent decisions even when facing aggressive pressing.
An analysis by Breaking The Lines described Kim as a “tactical chameleon” — a player capable of adapting seamlessly to different systems and styles of play. The report also highlighted his technical ability, noting his 93% pass completion rate and 5.59 progressive passes per 90 minutes, placing him among the top-performing centre-backs in Europe’s major leagues over the past year.
What Kim Would Bring to Liverpool
If signed, Kim would add both stability and experience to Liverpool’s defence. His combination of strength, anticipation, and composure aligns well with Arne Slot’s tactical vision, which emphasises controlled buildup play from the back.
While he is approaching 29, Kim’s immediate impact and Champions League experience could make him an ideal short-term solution as Liverpool aim to maintain their competitive edge in both domestic and European competitions.
Convincing Kim to leave Bayern may not be straightforward, especially given his desire to reclaim a regular starting spot. However, if the Bundesliga giants decide to entertain offers, Liverpool are expected to be among the first to explore a deal.
Conclusion
Kim Min-jae’s situation will be one to watch as the January and summer transfer windows approach. His proven pedigree, tactical intelligence, and physical dominance make him a strong candidate to reinforce Liverpool’s defence in 2026. With competition from top Premier League rivals and Bayern’s hesitation to sell, Liverpool’s pursuit of the South Korean could develop into one of the most intriguing transfer stories of the year.
