Manchester United have told Napoli that they are prepared to pay the release clause to sign defender Kim Min-jae, according to a new report - but there is a catch.
Italian outlet Il Mattino reported on Monday that Kim had agreed to join United this summer, with just the final details left to be ironed out. It is claimed that Erik ten Hag's side made the player a 'colossal' salary offer.
The 26-year-old has been a key player for Napoli this season in helping them win the Serie A title, and would add further quality to a United backline that includes Raphael Varane and Lisandro Martinez.
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Kim has been praised by Napoli boss Luciano Spalletti, who described him as 'the best defender in the world' .
Now, according to a fresh report, United have sent the Italian giants a clear message.
Man Utd send Napoli transfer message
According to Il Mattino (via Get Football News Italy), who add to their previous report, Kim has said 'yes' to joining United after being offered a €9 million per year salary.
But the key line is that United are said to have informed Napoli that they will pay the player's release clause this summer.
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His clause stands at €56 million, and if United trigger it, they are free to negotiate personal terms with the defender.
However, unlike most similar clauses in other contracts, Kim's release fee is said to only be available to trigger between the dates of July 1 and July 15 this summer.
Therefore, Erik ten Hag's side must act fast to seal a deal with the South Korean, with Napoli free to significantly increase their asking price for the defender if he is not sold by July 15.
But they do have plenty of time to prepare a bid, with the latest report appearing to send a clear message to the Italian giants that they are willing to sign one of the club's most prized assets.
Topics: Napoli, Manchester United, Erik Ten Hag, Premier League, Transfers
Ryan Smart