Manchester United looked to have completed their first deal of the summer weeks ago – but for Bayern Munich to gazump them now
(Image credit: Michael Regan - The FA/The FA via Getty Images)
Manchester United look like being beaten to their first signing of the summer, by Bayern Munich.
The Red Devils wanted to be quick out of the traps this summer, having had to wait for weeks to make their first buy of the 2022 summer window. Erik ten Hag has a number of areas to fill in his side, with several outgoings likely, too.
Corriere dello Sportin Italy claimed that Manchester United's first signing of the window, Kim Min-jae from Napoli, had already been agreed as long as two weeks ago, providing cover in defence and support to the likes of Lisandro Martinez and Raphael Varane.
Kim Min-jae of Napoli looked Manchester-bound… until now (Image credit: Jonathan Moscrop/Getty Images)
"Understand Bayern have presented their project to Kim Min-jae this week and the agreement on personal terms is now close," the Italian confirmed. "Kim, tempted by Bayern as talks are now advancing fast. Man United remain interested but it was never done."
The news will come as a massive blow to United, who were also said to be rivalling Arsenal for Declan Rice. With the Gunners much further along on that deal than their rivals, there is work to be done for the 20-time English champions.
The club are in the midst of a takeover at the moment, with Qatari investment likely in the coming weeks.
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Manchester United could have new owners soon. (Image credit: Jack Thomas – WWFC via Getty Images)
Mark White has been at on FourFourTwo since joining in January 2020, first as a staff writer before becoming content editor in 2023. An encyclopedia of football shirts and boots knowledge – both past and present – Mark has also represented FFT at both FA Cup and League Cup finals (though didn't receive a winners' medal on either occasion) and has written pieces for the mag ranging on subjects from Bobby Robson's season at Barcelona to Robinho's career. He has written cover features for the mag on Mikel Arteta and Martin Odegaard, and is assisted by his cat, Rosie, who has interned for the brand since lockdown.
