Son Heung-min (33, Tottenham Hotspur)'s future is once again uncertain. With the UEFA Europa League final approaching, the club has yet to offer a long-term contract extension, and speculation has arisen that the likelihood of a summer transfer is increasing.

TBR Football reported on the 18th (KST) that "Son Heung-min has a chance to remain at Tottenham next season, but his future could depend on the next manager's plans."

Additionally, it was noted that "Tottenham is keeping the door open for a possible separation from manager Ange Postecoglou after this season, and a reshaping of the squad could occur after the appointment of a new head coach."

Manager Postecoglou recorded a fifth-place finish in the Premier League last season, raising expectations in his debut year, but this season has generally been disappointing. The team was eliminated early from both the Carabao Cup and FA Cup, and the league ranking has stagnated at 17th, potentially marking one of the worst performances in Tottenham's history. While there is a last chance remaining in the UEFA Europa League final, the prevailing view is that it would be difficult to quell calls for his dismissal with a single trophy.

Son Heung-min's situation could be closely tied to manager Postecoglou's future. There is still a contract in place until next summer, but the club has recently postponed contract negotiations, leading to a resurgence in external interest.

In particular, movements from Saudi Arabia are notable. TBR Football reported that "the Saudi Arabian side is in ongoing contact with Son Heung-min's camp and is preparing a new offer that includes substantial salary conditions." The Saudi Arabian league has already signed prominent European players such as Karim Benzema, N'Golo Kanté, Sadio Mané, and Rúben Neves, and Son Heung-min has consistently been mentioned as one of the targets.

Son Heung-min extended his contract with Tottenham for one year last January. The contract extension was described as merely symbolic, with Tottenham reportedly planning to continue discussions after assessing Son's performance. However, since then, concrete discussions have not taken place, leading to increased uncertainty regarding Son Heung-min's future.

Saudi Arabia's Al Ittihad is said to have offered Son Heung-min a contract worth about €7.5 million annually, totaling approximately €30 million (about 42 billion won). At that time, Son Heung-min chose to stay, stating that "football is more important than money," but the situation may be different this time. If contract negotiations remain on hold when the transfer market opens, there is ample room for Son to choose a stage other than Tottenham.

Tottenham's position is also likely to deepen their concerns. If they do not transfer Son Heung-min this summer, he could leave as a free agent without a transfer fee in the summer of 2026. It is a time to consider the player's age, market value, and team rebuilding plans comprehensively.

Son Heung-min is a figure deserving of attention solely based on his achievements on the European stage. He began his European challenge from his youth days at Hamburger, moved through Bayer Leverkusen, and joined Tottenham, where he formed a historic attacking duo in the Premier League with Harry Kane. In the 2021-22 season, he became the first Asian player to win the Premier League Golden Boot and has consistently scored in various competitions, including the league, UEFA Champions League, and FA Cup.

His memorable solo wonder goal against Burnley and his multi-goal performance against Manchester City remain deeply etched in fans' memories. Additionally, as captain, Son Heung-min has established himself as a spiritual leader of the team during the past two seasons. Yet, despite this, the club has not shown any concrete movements toward a contract extension.

On the 22nd, Tottenham will face Manchester United in the UEFA Europa League final in Bilbao, Spain. It is a crucial match for Son Heung-min, as it presents his first opportunity to win a European competition, while the team could break a 17-year trophy drought. Depending on the outcome of this match, changes may occur in Son Heung-min's situation and future choices.

Following the recent match against Aston Villa, Son Heung-min expressed, "I was happy to be able to play in the match. I am in good shape, and the preparations for the final are complete." His statement, "Nothing is over yet. We will definitely make it," reflects his strong sense of responsibility to fight for the team until the end.

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