Son Heung-min (33, Tottenham Hotspur) has had the rumors of a transfer to Bayern Munich put to rest. Bayern has decided to re-sign Leroy Sané (29), who seemed likely to part ways.
'Sky Sports Germany' reported on the 11th (Korea time) that "Bayern has officially offered Sané a contract extension! He will have to accept a pay cut to re-sign."
The media explained, "Max Eberl, the Director General of Bayern, wants to keep Sané and has proposed a contract extension that runs until 2028. The annual salary is a fixed amount of €10 million (about 16.2 billion won), and with options included, it could increase to between €14 million (about 22.7 billion won) and €16 million (about 25.9 billion won)."
Sané is also inclined to accept this. Sky Sports reported that "Sané is currently earning about €20 million (approximately 32.4 billion won) annually, including bonuses, but wants to stay with the team. Therefore, despite interest from the Premier League, including Arsenal, he is willing to accept a pay cut."
Now, a re-signing between Sané and Bayern appears to be only a matter of time. The media added, "All parties are currently working towards a consensus. Sané wants to stay. The re-signing negotiations have entered a crucial stage! He has played 38 matches this season, scoring 11 goals and providing 5 assists."
German national team winger Sané's contract with Bayern will expire at the end of this season. As a result, his future had been uncertain. It has been reported that Mikel Arteta, the Arsenal manager, wants him, raising the prospect of a return to the Premier League.
For now, it seemed more likely that he would finish his journey with Bayern. Although Sané is famed for his explosive speed and sharp left-footed kicks, he has faced criticism from Bayern fans due to inconsistent defensive contributions and erratic performances. Most notably, his finishing ability has appeared significantly diminished.
The upheaval in the winger position has been identified as a top priority for Bayern. Not only Sané but also Kingsley Coman and Serge Gnabry are on the release list. Previously, Germany's 'Abendzeitung' claimed, "Bayern will undergo significant changes in their attack. Sané is likely to leave again due to poor form."
Bayern legend Lothar Matthäus also said, "There will certainly be some changes in the winger position," adding, "There are three unstable candidates: Coman, Gnabry, and Sané. It’s unlikely that all three will remain with the team next season. At least one or two will leave."
The news that Sané could leave Bayern led to speculation about Son Heung-min's potential transfer to Bayern. Reports centered around Spain's 'Fichajes' suggested that if Bayern parts ways with Sané, they could fill the vacancy with Son Heung-min. Given that Bayern needs a versatile forward who can also serve as a backup for Harry Kane, Son Heung-min, who possesses scoring ability, could be a good choice.
However, it was all just a rumor. As the transfer speculation around Son Heung-min gained attention in Germany, reputable journalists denied its validity. Florian Plettenberg of Sky Sports Germany stated that Bayern is not negotiating with Son Heung-min, adding that his high salary is a significant hurdle.
Christian Falk of 'Bild' echoed the same sentiment. When asked if the reports of Son Heung-min's transfer were true, he responded, "No. I want to know if we have ever given the truth to 'Fichajes.' This rumor is completely fabricated," stating, "Bayern cannot afford (Son Heung-min's salary). Bayern does not want to take him on."
With Sané's potential stay at Bayern becoming more likely, the possibility of Bayern changing their mind about Son Heung-min effectively diminished. If they retain Sané, there would be no reason to approach Son Heung-min, who occupies a similar position and demands a high salary. Unless a major twist occurs, a reunion between Son Heung-min and Kane seems unlikely.
[Photo] ⓒGettyimages (reproduction and redistribution prohibited), Nonstop Football, Florian Plettenberg, Fox Deportes social media.
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