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Analysis
Confirmed: Arsenal want to sign 'best centre-back in the world'
2 min read
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Arsenal are interested in signing Bayern Munich defender Kim Min-jae during the upcoming January transfer window, according to reports in Germany.
The South Korea international has fallen down the pecking order at the Allianz Arena following the arrival of Jonathan Tah last summer and it’s understood that a sale may be sanctioned in 2027 if Vincent Kompany’s side receive a suitable offer.
Kim has made six appearances across all competitions so far this season, but his long-term future at Bayern remains in doubt and with just over 18 months remaining on his current contract with the Bundesliga giants, Arsenal are keen to pounce.
That is according to German transfer reporter Christian Falk, who has confirmed that Kim is on Arsenal’s list of possible signings for 2027, with the Gunners looking to add another new defender to their first-team squad in January.
Arsenal chief scout Maurizio Micheli signed Kim during his time at Napoli and it’s reported that he is a driving force behind the club’s interest in the 29-year-old.
Kim only started one of Bayern’s six Champions League knockout ties last season, but Arsenal remain eager to finalise a deal for a player who was once described as “the best centre-back in the world” by ex-Napoli boss Luciano Spalletti.
Who else will Arsenal pursue in 2027?
While it’s reported that Kim is on Arsenal’s transfer radar, it’s unlikely that a new centre-back will be regarded as a priority next year following the summer arrival of Ezri Konsa from Aston Villa.
Instead, the Gunners are expected to bolster their options in attack after failing to replace Gabriel Martinelli following his €70 million move to Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal.
Juventus winger Kenan Yildiz has been earmarked as a primary target to provide competition for Christos Tzolis on the left flank, while Arsenal may also pursue a new striker amid questions over the long-term future of Viktor Gyokeres.
Atletico Madrid superstar Julian Alvarez remains on the club’s radar following his failed summer move, and Arsenal are also understood to be keeping close tabs on Christian Kofane’s situation at Bayer Leverkusen following reports that contract extension talks have stalled in recent weeks.
In addition, Bournemouth attacker Eli Junior Kroupi is firmly on Arsenal’s shortlist of potential signings after a sensational debut campaign in the Premier League last year.
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