Man Utd set to launch move for 'extraordinary' World Cup star after turning down 2021 transfer

Manchester United are set to launch a January bid to sign Napoli centre-back Kim Min-Jae - over a year after reportedly turning down a cut-price opportunity to bring him to Old Trafford.

The centre-back has been playing for South Korea at the World Cup, starting in three of their four games. He missed the final group game through injury.

South Korea made it to the knockout stages, with their run in the tournament ended by a 4-1 defeat to Brazil in the last 16.

He has hugely impressed at club level, meanwhile, having joined Napoli from Turkish giants Fenerbahce in the summer.

Former Napoli striker Emmanuele Calaio told Tuttomercatoweb that the defender is 'extraordinary' due to his performances, and he has been an ever-present in their Champions League campaign.

The 26-year-old's defensive abilities are exceptional, whilst he is also exceptionally composed on the ball.

And now United have joined the race for his signature.

Man Utd keen on Kim Min-Jae

According to the Daily Mirror, Erik ten Hag's side have reignited their interest in Kim Min-Jae after his excellent start to the season at Napoli.

The defender was of interest to both United and Tottenham last season, with the same source claiming the Red Devils were offered the opportunity to sign him for £3 million whilst he was at Chinese Super League side Beijing Guoan.

But neither English club took up that opportunity, and he eventually moved to Fenerbahce.

Football Transfers claim that the defender has a release clause of around €45 million in his contract, which would surely make him an affordable January option for both clubs.

And it is suggested that United have been closely monitoring the player's performances ahead of a potential move - but it remains to be seen whether the 26-year-old would jump at the chance to move to Manchester, given the Red Devils' failure to sign him as recently as last year.