Kim Min-jae, will there be a new competitor? Munich imminent signing of Japanese centre-back

A buyout of approximately 44.5 billion won was activated to recruit Hiroki Ito.

Hiroki Ito, who enjoyed a meal with Jung Woo-young in Stuttgart in the German professional soccer Bundesliga, is expected to compete with Kim Min-jae (Bayern Munich) for the starting position.

German media such as Sky Sports and Bild said, “Munich is activating the 30 million euros (approximately 44.5 billion won) buyout clause for Japanese central defender Ito. The player also wanted to move to Munich and signed a contract until at least 2028,” the report said.

Fabrizio Romano, a reporter specializing in the transfer market, also announced that Ito’s transfer to Munich was imminent, saying, “Only a medical test remains.“

Ito, a Japanese national, is a resource with not only solid defense but also passing ability. He also has the multi-play ability to play not only as a central defender, but also as a left wing and defensive midfielder.

He joined Stuttgart on loan in 2021 and transferred permanently the following year.

And in the 2023-2024 season, he played in 29 official games and recorded 2 assists, contributing greatly to the team’s second place in the league. He is a player familiar to domestic soccer fans as he plays on the same team as national team striker Jung Woo-young.

Recognized for his skills, he caught the eye of Munich, which has recently been significantly reorganizing its squad, and it appears that they have finally reached an agreement. Once the transfer to Munich is completed, he will compete with Kim Min-jae for the starting position. Kim Min-jae, who was pushed aside by Matthieus de Ligt and Eric Dier at the end of last season, is expected to compete for the starting position in the new season, and is expected to engage in friendly competition with Ito as well. 성인웹툰