The defender is expected to leave Napoli this summer due to interest from some of the biggest clubs in Europe.
He has been heavily linked with a move to Manchester United, who are believed to be ready to pay his release clause of €60m next month to take him to Old Trafford.
There are suggestions that the South Korean has more or less made the decision to move to Manchester United but it has been claimed that Newcastle are now threatening to blow the saga open again.
According to Italian daily Corriere dello Sport, the centre-back’s representatives were at St. James’ Park towards the end of the recently-concluded season.
A secret meeting took place between Kim’s camp and Newcastle on the sidelines of a Premier League game.
Eddie Howe wants to bring in a centre-back and the Napoli defender has emerged as a target.
The Magpies also have the means to pay his release clause and have also qualified for the Champions League.
Manchester United have put in significant legwork in the potential deal for Kim but are now facing serious competition from Newcastle.
