Al-Nassr enter race to sign Harry Kane's team-mate as Cristiano Ronaldo's side bid to strengthen ahead of Saudi Pro League title charge

Harry Kane Bayern Munich 2025 FIFA Club World Cup

Cristiano Ronaldo's Al-Nassr have set their sights on a high-profile defensive addition as they look to lure Bayern Munich’s Kim Min-jae to Riyadh. According to reports from Foot Mercato, the Saudi Pro League side has entered negotiations with the German champions to explore the possibility of acquiring the South Korean international this summer.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Kim made the switch to Bayern Munich in 2023 after a breakout season with Napoli, where his performances in Serie A earned him widespread recognition. Bayern activated his €50 million (£43m/$57m) release clause, bringing him in as a key addition to their backline. However, he could find himself slipping in the pecking order with the arrival of German international Jonathan Tah from Bayer Leverkusen.

Min-jae Kim Bayern 04042025

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Kim is being lined up as a direct replacement for Aymeric Laporte, who could be on his way out after an inconsistent season at Al-Awwal Park. One of the most attractive attributes is Kim's experience in Europe’s top leagues. From his commanding displays in Serie A with Napoli to a strong showing in the Bundesliga, he has consistently proven his quality against elite opposition. Al-Nassr are hoping to inject that pedigree into their dressing room, especially as the Saudi Pro League grows increasingly competitive with each passing season.

DID YOU KNOW?

While no agreement has been finalised yet, talks between Al-Nassr and Bayern are understood to be progressing. Encouragingly for Al-Nassr, Kim is said to be open to the idea of joining the Riyadh-based club. With Laporte potentially exiting, the timing and fit of this transfer appear aligned for both club and player.

Al-Nassr v Al-Khaleej - Saudi Pro League

WHAT NEXT?

Al-Nassr are currently busy playing a string of pre-season friendlies as they gear up for the upcoming Pro League season. Their next match is against the Spanish side Almeria at the Estadio Mediterraneo on Sunday. After that, they will head back to Saudi Arabia to lock horns against arch-rivals Al-Ittihad in the Saudi Super Cup on August 19.