Arsenal Add Bayern Defender Kim Min-jae to January Shortlist

Arsenal have added Bayern Munich defender Kim Min-jae to their list of potential January signings, according to Christian Falk.

The German journalist revealed that the South Korean is now officially on Arsenal's radar, with the injury to Piero Hincapié a key factor in the club's interest.

Hincapié suffered an ankle injury during a post-match warm-down following last weekend's 2-1 win over Leeds United, and the setback has left Mikel Arteta short of options at the back. The Ecuadorian underwent scans and his injury will see him sidelined for ‘weeks’, according to the Spanish manager. 

Arsenal strengthened their defence in the summer with the signing of Ezri Konsa, who has impressed in the absence of William Saliba. The France international has been sidelined with a back injury since the World Cup, but has returned to grass in recent weeks and is reportedly close to a full return.

Even with Saliba's return on the horizon, Arsenal's recent injury record may persuade them to add further depth. Riccardo Calafiori has missed 44 matches since joining in 2024, while Jurriën Timber and Ben White have both underwent surgery and endured long spells on the sidelines in recent seasons.

Arsenal scouting chief Maurizio Micheli was the man who identified the defender during his time at Napoli, where Kim spent a hugely successful season before moving to Germany.

The 29-year-old was one of the standout performers as Napoli won Serie A in 2022/23, their first title in 33 years, and was named the league's best defender before joining Bayern in the summer of 2023.

Known for his pace, strength in the air and comfort on the ball, he has since become an important squad player in Munich, though he currently sits behind Dayot Upamecano and Jonathan Tah in Vincent Kompany's pecking order.

Bayern are not actively looking to sell him, and have reportedly been planning talks over his future, with Kompany said to be pleased with his contribution. However, Falk suggested the club could listen to offers at the right price.

Arsenal are not the only Premier League side keeping tabs on the centre-back, with Aston Villa and Tottenham Hotspur also reported to be interested.

Arteta may get a close look at Kim sooner rather than later. Arsenal travel to Munich on Wednesday for their Champions League league-phase clash with Bayern, who will be without Michael Olise.

The Gunners have not conceded from open play in their last eight Champions League matches, dating back to their trip to Bayer Leverkusen in last season's round of 16, and Kim's experience at the highest level would add further depth to one of Europe's most reliable defences.