Manchester United are expected to monitor defensive and attacking transfer developments involving Bayern Munich players this summer, with both Kim Min-jae and Marcus Rashford linked to potential moves. The club last made a major investment in first-team central defense in the summer of 2024, when Matthijs de Ligt arrived from Bayern Munich for an initial fee of £38.6 million. The transfer came at the request of then manager Erik ten Hag, who wanted to reunite with his former Ajax defender. De Ligt quickly settled into the Premier League and became United’s most reliable defender in his first season, showing strength in duels, composure under pressure, and the ability to cope with the league’s pace and physical demands.
That progress was then interrupted by serious fitness problems. De Ligt struggled with back injury issues last season and missed the entire second half of the campaign. He has not yet returned to full fitness, leaving questions over his long-term durability heading into a season in which United could be competing in the Champions League. Those concerns appear to be influencing the club’s recruitment strategy, particularly because another key center-back, Lisandro Martinez, has also battled injury setbacks. United are therefore wary of relying too heavily on defenders whose availability cannot be guaranteed across a long and demanding campaign.
One player reportedly under close observation is Bayern Munich’s Kim Min-jae. According to reporting in Germany, United’s recruitment staff have been tracking the South Korean defender for some time and are expected to continue doing so during the World Cup. So far, however, there has been no concrete development. Kim, who stands 6ft 3in, is known for his physical presence, calm passing, and strong ball-carrying ability. He built a reputation as one of Europe’s most dependable center-backs during Napoli’s title-winning season, when the Italian club ended a 33-year wait for a Serie A crown. At Bayern, though, he has not been an undisputed starter, and his future may depend on how he performs on the international stage.
Kim is set to begin his World Cup campaign against Czechia, and a strong tournament could strengthen United’s interest and push them toward more serious action later in the summer. Juventus and several Turkish clubs are also said to be monitoring his situation, while Kim is believed to be content in Munich for now.
United-linked speculation is not limited to defense. Marcus Rashford, who plays on the left wing for England, is also drawing attention in the United States. Barcelona are said to be reluctant to sign him permanently, while Bayern Munich are reportedly willing to pay a significant transfer fee. Even so, the German club are not prepared to match Rashford’s high wage demands. His situation could change depending on his performances for England, with a standout World Cup potentially increasing his value and widening his transfer options.
