Son Heung-min (33, Tottenham) has finally reached a crossroads. Just after lifting the UEFA Europa League trophy, as the end of his contract without a long-term renewal with Tottenham is approaching, Saudi Arabia is once again calling his name. Once firmly rejected by oil money, the situation is different this time.

Tottenham Hotspur News reported on the 2nd (Korea time) that "Son Heung-min's last match at Tottenham could be the UEFA Europa League final," and added, "Chairman Daniel Levy is preparing for Son Heung-min's transfer, and Leroy Sané and Jack Grealish are being considered as replacement candidates."

ESPN also reacted swiftly, stating, "Son Heung-min is a target for clubs in the Saudi Arabian league," noting that "the Saudi Arabian summer transfer window opens on July 20, and Son Heung-min is likely to be at the top of their proposal list." Additionally, they forecasted, "Although Tottenham is not keen on letting Son Heung-min go easily, a significantly higher salary than the current one will likely be offered, so a difficult decision will have to be made."

The uncertainty surrounding Son Heung-min's future has been sensed for some time. Toward the Rain and Back noted that "after the UEFA Europa League victory, Tottenham plans to embark on a major squad overhaul again, and key players including Son Heung-min are also on the list."

They continued, "One of the veterans whose contract is ending is Son Heung-min," emphasizing that "declining performance and frequent injuries could accelerate the decision."

An interesting point is that Saudi Arabia's interest in Son Heung-min is not a one-time affair. Last summer, he reportedly received a massive offer from Saudi Al-Ittihad of 30 million euros (43.3 billion won) per season under a four-year contract, totaling more than 180 billion won.

At that time, Son Heung-min declined the offer and chose to remain. He directly said, "Playing in the Premier League is a dream," adding, "Football comes first."

However, this summer the atmosphere is different. Having already achieved personal trophies, captaincy, top scorer, and recently a championship in the European club scene, Son Heung-min has few remaining challenges. With one year left until his contract expires, Tottenham is still showing caution regarding a long-term contract.

Football London reported, "Tottenham will not offer Son Heung-min a contract longer than three years and may have to make a brutally difficult decision."

Another variable influencing his future decisions is the manager. This season, Tottenham is in the process of parting ways with manager Postecoglou, and when a new manager takes office, Son Heung-min's position will be reassessed. If the next manager aims for a generational shift, Son Heung-min's status could become even more unstable.

No one can deny the stature Son Heung-min has built at Tottenham. He has made 454 appearances, scoring 173 goals and providing 101 assists, ranking first in most assists and fifth in scoring in Tottenham history. Since 2023, he has been appointed as the first official captain from Asia, establishing himself as a symbolic figure.

Movements from Saudi Arabia and big European clubs regarding Son Heung-min's future are also being closely monitored. In the past, clubs like Manchester United, Barcelona, and Bayern Munich have linked their names to Son Heung-min, and depending on this summer's situation, there is a possibility of renewed contact.

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