Aston Villa have been eyeing for an Asian star to bolster their squad in the next transfer window.
Aston Villa have been relieved before the international break following their consecutive wins in the last two games after their dismal start. They snatched a 3-1 win over Coventry City in the Carabao Cup and 3-2 win over Spurs in the Premier League.
Nevertheless, Unai Emery does not seem to be content yet. They have conceded nine goals so far in all competition, despite the fine form of their newly signed goalkeeper, Zion Suzuki. The injury of Pau Torres and Ian Maatsen has made it even more concerning. Villa appears to be watching closely on their defensive frailties.
According to the report from fussballnews.de, The Lions are targeting one Asian star in Bayern Munich, Kim Min Jae, to upgrade their defensive line in the next transfer window in January, especially if their rate of concession stays the same approaching the new year.
“Tottenham Hotspur and Aston Villa, Juventus Turin and AC Milan are also monitoring his situation in Munich.”
Kim Min Jae is still tied up his contract with Bayern till summer 2028, despite not being the starter all the time in Die Roten. His asking price could be reaching up to £ 34 million. Such a fee should be affordable for any Premier League side, especially for someone as experienced as Min Jae.
The 29-year-old defender does not seem to have a problem when losing his regular minutes, especially when Vincent Kompany began to take charge. He still managed to make 121 appearances so far, scoring five goals and providing three assists in the process.
Min Jae might not be in his peak years but his experience at the top level and physicality might be handy for the defensive frailties. His main position is a centre back but he can be deployed as full back in both flanks. The former Napoli man excels at aerial duel, passing and interception, which can be a fine direct replacement for Tyrone Mings, who is already 33 years old.
Based on the data in FotMob, his form in the Bundesliga last season was impressive. His successful passes was 94.9 %, while his accurate long ball rate was 57.9%. The South Korean international created five shots and three of them were on target, plus created four chances.
His successful dribble was 50 %, while the rate of winning duels was 62.6 %. Min Jae is strong defensively with 159 defensive contributions, including 22 tackles, 39 interceptions, 18 blocking shots and 80 clearances.
Apparently, Suzuki’s top form may have triggered Villa’s interest in signing another Asian star. Should they manage to sign the defender with 82 international caps, Villa would have two Asian stars in the first team squad this season, the first time in the club’s history.
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