Saudi Arabia has once again shown interest, but Tottenham seems to have no intention of letting Son Heung-min (33) go. Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy has firmly established the policy of absolutely not selling Son, who is a symbol of the team, during this summer transfer window.
Football Insider reported on the 31st (Korean time) that "Son remains a mental pillar for Tottenham, and the leadership is not expected to accept any offers for him."
It added, "Chairman Levy views Son as more than just a player and considers him a key asset for the next few seasons."
On the other hand, rumors of a transfer from Saudi Arabia continue to emerge. The Sun reported that "multiple clubs in the Saudi Arabian Professional League have targeted Son as the successor to Cristiano Ronaldo and a new superstar," and noted, "If a massive offer arrives, Tottenham might have room to consider it."
It is reported that Saudi Arabian club owners have shifted their top target from Mohamed Salah, who remained at Liverpool, to Son Heung-min. As news emerges that Ronaldo is moving towards a departure from Al Nassr, Son is also being mentioned as the 'next face of the league.'
However, Son lifted his long-desired first trophy on the European stage. Leading the team as captain in the UEFA Europa League final, Son became the protagonist who brought Tottenham its first major tournament trophy in 17 years. It was the most valuable moment in Son's career, who has spent 10 years in the Premier League.
Although his performance showed some ups and downs, he recorded 11 goals and 12 assists in 46 matches, playing a key role in Tottenham's attack. In the latter part of the season, his performance declined due to a foot injury, and he missed several key opportunities, but despite the overall struggles, he led the team to Europa victory and UEFA Champions League qualification, maintaining his value.
Criticism exists, but ultimately, Son proved his worth. While some argue that with only one year left on Son's contract, this summer is the right time for a sale, the sentiment within Tottenham is entirely different. In fact, there is a prevailing assessment that Son's leadership and experience are absolutely necessary for the Champions League competition next season.
In fact, former England goalkeeper Paul Robinson, who played for Tottenham in the past, said, "Son is still a world-class player. He is like a talisman for Tottenham, and no matter what competitions the team participates in, Son should be at the center of it." He added, "It wasn't his best season, but his influence within the team remains unparalleled," emphasizing the need for him to stay.
Meanwhile, Tottenham is reportedly considering the full acquisition of Mathys Tel, who joined on loan from Bayern Munich, but has determined internally that he is not sufficient to completely replace Son. Although Tel showed potential throughout the season, it was assessed that he lacks the experience to be deployed as a starting winger in the Premier League.
Tottenham is planning to bolster its attack this summer and is exploring the acquisition of free agents like Leroy Sané, but the moves are more about finding a companion to play alongside Son rather than a replacement.
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