Another name has reportedly been added to Liverpool’s shortlist of potential centre-back signings for 2026.
Over recent months, the Reds have been linked with a range of defenders — from well-known figures like Marc Guehi and Nico Schlotterbeck to emerging talents such as Dynamo Kyiv’s Taras Mykhavko and Union Berlin’s Diogo Leite. Now, another Bundesliga player is said to be on sporting director Richard Hughes’ radar as the January transfer window draws nearer.
Liverpool keeping tabs on Kim Min-jae
According to Dean Jones for Flashscore (via The Boy Hotspur), Liverpool are monitoring Bayern Munich defender Kim Min-jae, who is also attracting attention from Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur.
The €50m (£43.7m) centre-back has found regular playing time hard to come by under Vincent Kompany this season. Reports suggest Bayern have not dismissed the idea of selling him in 2026 but intend to evaluate his situation further before making a decision. A move next summer appears more plausible than a January transfer, though the 28-year-old is said to be determined to reclaim his place in the starting lineup at the Allianz Arena.
What could Kim offer Liverpool’s defence?
With Ibrahima Konaté’s contract situation unresolved and defensive lapses surfacing too often lately, it’s understandable that centre-back is a key area of focus for Liverpool heading into the next transfer window.
Although Kim has struggled for minutes at Bayern and will soon turn 29, he remains a proven Champions League performer who could offer immediate quality and experience.
A detailed analysis by Breaking The Lines highlights his exceptional ball control, tactical adaptability, and composure under pressure, describing him as a “tactical chameleon” who “thrives where others panic.”
Standing 6ft 2in tall, the South Korean would also add a strong aerial and physical presence to Arne Slot’s defence — a valuable trait given the rising importance of set-piece goals in the Premier League.
Beyond his defensive strength, Kim excels in possession: per FBref, he ranks among the top 6% of European centre-backs for pass completion (93%) and top 8% for progressive passes per 90 minutes (5.59).
While convincing him to leave Bayern could prove challenging — and competition for his signature will be fierce if he becomes available — Liverpool could do far worse than to seriously consider the 28-year-old as they look to fortify their backline in 2026.
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