Son Heung-min (33, Tottenham), who achieved the remarkable feat of winning the UEFA Europa League, has become the center of attention in the transfer market. This time, familiar names have emerged. Local reports indicate that Saudi Arabia's prominent clubs, Al Ittihad and Al Hilal, have entered into serious competition to acquire Son Heung-min.

On the 31st (Korea time), Saudi Arabian media outlet Salati reported, "Al Ittihad has entered the bidding for Son Heung-min, and Al Hilal is still considered the strongest candidate," adding that "Tottenham will not hesitate to sell Son Heung-min for a large sum in this summer transfer market."

After a quiet period, transfer rumors have reignited in May. The Sun reported that "Tottenham is seriously considering Son Heung-min's transfer to Saudi Arabia" and stated, "They are willing to allow a transfer if a substantial offer arrives."

On the 22nd, Son Heung-min won his first title in 10 years since joining Tottenham by defeating Manchester United in the UEFA Europa League final. As the captain lifting the trophy, he became the third captain in Tottenham's history to hold a European competition trophy. Thus, he has achieved nearly everything possible at Tottenham, following being the Premier League top scorer and scoring double digits in league goals for eight consecutive seasons.

There are suggestions that this Europa League victory might be Son Heung-min's "final scene" at Tottenham. Analysts note that it is now time for Son, who has gained global fame beyond Asia, to consider practical choices.

The internal circumstances at Tottenham are also influencing the decision. Tottenham extended Son Heung-min's contract until 2026 last January. However, since he will be 34 years old when the contract expires, this summer represents the last opportunity for the club to expect a high transfer fee.

Particularly this season, Son Heung-min has not fully replicated his explosive ability due to a decline in physical fitness and frequent minor injuries. The streak of scoring double digits in league goals for eight consecutive seasons has come to an end, and many believe his influence in matches has diminished compared to before. The Guardian noted, "Considering Son Heung-min's high salary and fitness issues, now may be the most appropriate time for a farewell."

In this context, Saudi Arabia's interest is becoming more concrete. According to local reports, Al Ittihad and Al Hilal have already made transfer offers to Tottenham amounting to approximately £50 million (931 billion won). Both sides have identified Son Heung-min as a representative player to enhance the league's global brand value.

Al Ittihad is the club that won the league title last season led by Karim Benzema and had previously offered Son Heung-min a contract worth 240 billion won two years ago. At that time, Son Heung-min rejected the offer, stating, "Football is more important," but the situation is different now.

Al Hilal, representing Saudi Arabia's traditional powerhouse, is currently considered one of the strongest clubs in the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Champions League. After their pursuit of Salah fell through, they have targeted Son Heung-min as a replacement, believing he can enhance the viewership and global recognition of the entire Saudi Professional League.

Talksport and GiveMeSport also reported, "The Saudi Arabian league has identified Son Heung-min as Cristiano Ronaldo's successor," adding that "Son Heung-min is now in a position where choosing practicality over honor would not attract any condemnation."

Tottenham also lacks substantial grounds to oppose a transfer. While they recognize the symbolic value of Son Heung-min, they are taking into account the burden of his salary and the risks associated with the contract's expiration. SpursWeb reported, "Son Heung-min's salary is now considered excessive, even within the team," and stated, "Tottenham is likely to decide when they can gain revenue from a transfer fee."

Ultimately, the choice rests with Son Heung-min. After proving himself on the top European stage for a long time, he now stands at a crossroads where he can pursue both fame and revenue by returning to Asia.

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