Saudi Arabian clubs are making another push to acquire Son Heung-min (33, Tottenham Hotspur) by leveraging their substantial financial resources. However, the situation is tilting more towards his staying.

Graham Bailey, a reporter for TBR Football, noted on the 18th (Korean time) that "Son Heung-min could remain at Tottenham next season, but this could depend on who the new manager is." He further explained that the lack of concrete transfer rumors around Son is also due to the possibility of a managerial change. Currently, there are speculations about the dismissal of Ange Postecoglou, which could also impact Son's future.

Tottenham activated a one-year extension option with Son Heung-min in January, extending his contract through the summer of 2027. However, the decision to opt for a short-term extension rather than a multi-year contract indicates the club's intention to assess Son's performance before solidifying their negotiating position. This suggests that the club has not yet confirmed Son as a long-term core asset.

Taking advantage of the situation, a Saudi Pro League team is continuing its offensive aimed at Son Heung-min. Bailey reported that "the Saudi club is in continuous contact with Son’s camp." Son was also tempted by Saudi offers last summer.

According to U.S. media CBS Sports at the time, Al Ittihad offered Son Heung-min a transfer fee of $65 million (approximately 90.8 billion won) along with a massive contract totaling €120 million (approximately 187.6 billion won) over four years. However, Son rejected the offer, stating, "Football is more important." He has expressed that it is his dream to leave the team after winning a title with Tottenham.

However, this summer is different. Son's standing within the team is not as strong as it once was. The potential managerial change and the club's uncertain re-signing stance are adding weight to transfer possibilities. If Son lifts a trophy with Tottenham, his decision may become clearer.

On the 22nd, Tottenham will face Manchester United in the UEFA Europa League final for the 2024-2025 season at Estadio San Mamés in Bilbao, Spain. Son has recovered from a foot injury, and while there is a possibility of playing, his starting status is uncertain. Recently, he played for about 30 minutes against Crystal Palace and for 72 minutes against Aston Villa to regain match fitness.

The Athletic reported that "Son Heung-min showed vitality in the first half against Aston Villa, but overall this season has not lived up to expectations." It also raised the possibility of starting 2004 winger Wilson Odobert.

Son Heung-min is currently focused on the Europa League final rather than transfer issues. He is putting all his effort into lifting his first career trophy.

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