Son Heung-min (33, Tottenham Hotspur) seems to have had light conversations with a Saudi Arabian club.
European football transfer market expert Fabrizio Romano appeared on the global sports media 'DAZN' podcast on the 7th (Korean time) and said, "Son Heung-min's agent has a good relationship with Saudi clubs. There have been discussions over the past few weeks. It is true that Saudi clubs have shown interest in Son Heung-min."
However, he explained, "There have been no official negotiations or offers with Tottenham yet. The negotiations are in the early stages."
Romano forecasted that the dismissal of coach Postecoglou and the appointment of a new coach could affect Son Heung-min's situation. He said, "If the new coach evaluates Son Heung-min as a necessary player, Tottenham will keep him."
Tottenham officially announced the dismissal of coach Postecoglou on the 6th. Chairman Daniel Levy made the decision himself. The 'Telegraph' reported, "Just weeks after winning the Europa League, the coach was dismissed. Levy determined the dismissal conditions after the coach's return from vacation, and the club staff were informed."
Despite lacking experience on the European stage last season, coach Postecoglou made a strong start, leading Tottenham to the top of the Premier League standings. However, due to monotonous tactics and overworked game management, the team fell into a sharp decline in the second half of the season. With 11 wins, 5 draws, and 22 losses in 38 Premier League matches, they accumulated only 38 points, marking the lowest ranking in club history and tying for the most losses.
Nevertheless, coach Postecoglou showed confidence, stating, "I always win in my second year." Surprisingly, he demonstrated it through results. He defeated Manchester United 1-0, lifting the Europa League trophy. While he struggled in the Premier League, he secured a trophy in European competitions.
Son Heung-min also captured his first trophy after his debut.
Son Heung-min's contract with Tottenham runs until June 2026. This summer is considered the last opportunity for Tottenham to collect a transfer fee. The British BBC reported, "Tottenham could sell Son Heung-min if a significant offer comes in." The 'Sun' also analyzed, "Tottenham does not want to send Son Heung-min away, but they will consider it if a huge offer arrives."
The British telecommunications giant 'PA Media' further reported, "Saudi Pro League clubs that showed interest in Son Heung-min two years ago are sending love calls again. Al Nassr, Al Ittihad, and Al Hilal are among the candidates."
The Saudi League summer transfer window opens on July 20. Although Son Heung-min won the Europa League trophy, it is true that he struggled due to injuries this season, finishing with only 11 goals across all competitions. The BBC analyzed, "Son Heung-min recorded his lowest tally since his debut, marking the beginning of his aging curve. His chances of transfer have increased."
That said, Son Heung-min is not a 'legend' of Tottenham. He has made a total of 454 appearances for Tottenham, scoring 173 goals and providing 101 assists, ranking 6th for most appearances and 5th for most goals in the club's history. Since 2023, he has led the team as captain.
In the past, when transfer rumors to Saudi Arabia circulated, Son Heung-min dismissed them, stating, "As the captain of the South Korean national team, I still have things to accomplish in the Premier League." At the time, his "things to accomplish" were interpreted as winning. He finally achieved that dream this season.
Now, it seems that whether Son Heung-min will stay at Tottenham depends on a lucrative offer and the intentions of the new coach.
[Photo] Son Heung-min ⓒGettyimages (Unauthorized reproduction and redistribution prohibited)
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