Son Heung-min (33, Tottenham Hotspur) could be leaving the team after a 10-year journey.
The British 'Tottenham Hotspur News' reported on the 2nd (Korea time) that "the Europa League (UEL) final might be Son Heung-min's last match for Tottenham."
Tottenham defeated Manchester United 1-0 on the 22nd of last month to ascend to the summit of the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) UEL. This marks their first title in 17 years since winning the League Cup in 2008. Additionally, they embraced a trophy in European competitions for the first time in 41 years.
As a result, Tottenham also secured a spot in the UEFA Champions League (UCL) for next season. Despite falling to 17th place in the Premier League, they will participate in 'the stage of stars' as the UEL champions.
However, there is no guarantee that Son Heung-min will participate in the UCL with Tottenham next season. Rumors regarding his transfer to the Saudi Arabian league have emerged ahead of the upcoming summer transfer market. Furthermore, Tottenham is looking for a replacement for Son Heung-min, which strengthens the speculation of his sale.
Son Heung-min has a contract with Tottenham until the summer of 2026. Essentially, this transfer market is seen as the last chance for Tottenham to sell Son Heung-min at an appropriate price.
Tottenham is reportedly pursuing Leroy Sané (Bayern Munich) in anticipation of Son Heung-min's departure.
'Give Me Sport' reported that "Chairman Levy has contacted Sané's agent, whose contract with Bayern ends after this season."
'Tottenham Hotspur News' noted that "to acquire Sané, a guarantee of starting appearances and a high salary is necessary. This could jeopardize Son Heung-min's position."
Additionally, the media explained, "After experiencing second place in the Premier League in 2016 and being a runner-up in the League Cup in 2021, raising the UEL trophy this time was an emotional moment for him. However, leaving the team for new changes might be the best for everyone. Chairman Levy is considering firing Ange Postecoglou and pushing for Sané's acquisition while contemplating the sale of Son Heung-min."
Son Heung-min holds the record for the sixth-most appearances and fifth-most goals in Tottenham's history. Since 2015, he has made 454 appearances, scoring 173 goals and providing 101 assists. In 2023, he became the first Asian player to wear the captain's armband for Tottenham, solidifying his status as an iconic player for the club. However, it seems that the time for parting is approaching.
The interest of Saudi Arabian clubs has ignited speculation regarding Son Heung-min's transfer. American 'ESPN' reported on the 31st of last month, citing 'Talk Sports' that "several teams from the Saudi Pro League are targeting Son Heung-min."
The summer transfer market for the Saudi league opens on July 20. Al Nassr, Al Ittihad, and Al Hilal are among the clubs interested in acquiring Son Heung-min.
'ESPN' and 'The Sun' reported that Tottenham could consider selling him if a high-priced offer comes in.
[Photo] Son Heung-min ⓒGettyimages (Unauthorized reproduction and redistribution prohibited)
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