Liverpool or Tottenham could sign ‘best defender in the world’ for £43m

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Napoli coach Luciano Spalletti believes Kim Min-Jae is the ‘best centre-back in the world’ as Premier League trio Liverpool, Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United chase the Serie A colossus, speaking to DAZN. 

It was a game that will be remembered for Kvicha Kvaradona’s latest Maradona tribute act – twisting this way and that before slamming home in stunning style – but do not underestimate Kim’s role in another win and another clean sheet. 

The South Korean was at his commanding best during Saturday’s 2-0 win over Atalanta. Napoli are not only 18 points clear at the top, they also boast Italy’s best defensive record. Kim – a bargain £16 million signing from Fenerbahce – has stepped effortlessly into Kalidou Koulibaly’s sky-blue shoes. 

“Kim does at least 20 incredible things per game,” beams Spalletti. “For me, he truly is the best centre-back in the world. When he starts to run, he can get into the opposition penalty area in five seconds flat.” 

Liverpool, Tottenham and Man United like Napoli’s Kim Min-Jae

According to Il Mattino, Liverpool are keen. Kim caught the eye against Jurgen Klopp’s side in the Champions League group-stages. Saturday’s 1-0 loss at Bournemouth, meanwhile, once again exposed the Reds’ error-prone backline. 

And Tottenham Hotspur, Si Gonfia la Rete add, are willing to trigger the affordable £43 million release clause in Kim’s contract. 

Spurs could have signed the one-time Everton target for a fraction of that fee during the Jose Mourinho era, however. That is, at least, according to Fenerbahce president Ali Koc.

“Jose Mourinho wanted Kim Min-Jae (in 2020)” Fenerbahce president Ali Koc revealed a couple of months ago. “But (Spurs) did not pay the 14 million euros.”

Former Liverpool and Tottenham midfielder Danny Murphy, meanwhile, believes that Kim’s price-tag could grow exponentially if a bidding war breaks out; Manchester United and Real Madrid also reportedly interested.

“His performances have been so good,” Murphy told the BBC during the Qatar World Cup. “I was talking to someone, he said that Manchester United are in for him and they’re talking £100m. (Napoli) have been sensational this season, him included.”