According to the Bild podcast Bayern Insider, Maurizio Micheli has put the South Korean centre-back forward as a possible target for the Gunners. Micheli, Arsenal’s scouting chief, previously identified Kim as a player worth pursuing while working in Italy.
Micheli was involved in Napoli’s move for Kim in 2022, when the defender joined from Fenerbahçe for a reported €19 million. After an impressive season in Serie A, Kim moved to Bayern in 2023 for a fee reported to be around €50 million.
The 29-year-old’s future in Munich has become a subject of speculation after a difficult performance in Bayern’s 3-3 Champions League draw away to Viking FK on Tuesday. Kim was criticised for his part in the defensive problems that allowed the Norwegian side to take a two-goal lead.
His recent performances had reportedly improved his standing at Bayern, however, with a possible contract extension beyond 2028 previously emerging as a consideration.
Arsenal are said to be looking for another centre-back ahead of the January window. If a sufficiently attractive offer arrived, Bayern could face a decision over whether to sell, particularly given the need to secure a replacement before allowing a senior defender to leave.
Kim is one of four established central defenders in the Bayern Munich squad alongside Dayot Upamecano, Jonathan Tah and Hiroki Ito. Losing him midway through the season would therefore require careful planning, especially with domestic and European commitments continuing.
For now, the reported link remains at an early stage. There is no confirmed bid from Arsenal, nor any indication that Bayern have decided to make Kim available. Any potential transfer would depend on the terms offered and whether the German champions could find a suitable replacement.