Bundesliga champions Bayern Munich have stolen a march in the race to sign Napoli’s Kim Min-Jae.

As reported earlier this week, Premier League giants Manchester United were confident that they could strike a deal for the South Korean international who was central to Napoli’s first Serie A winning season since 1990.

Kim Min-Jae wanted by ex-Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel

According to Foot Mercato journalist Santi Aouna, however, Bayern Munich have entered the race and are more than willing to pay the release clause for the 26-year-old as they look for defensive reinforcements with Lucas Hernandez set to leave the club for Paris Saint Germain.

The Bavarians are reportedly progressing with talks over an $11 million-a-year contract being offered with the final decision being left up to the player.

The Red Devils and fellow Champions League qualifiers Newcastle United are still in the hunt for Kim but are now believed to have been left treading water in the race for the South Korean.