Saudi Arabia's massive capital is targeting Son Heung-min (33, Tottenham) again. The top team in the Saudi Pro League, Al-Hilal, has set its sights on Son Heung-min as a new attacking resource after failing to acquire Victor Osimhen.
Football365 reported on the 10th (Korean time) that "after failing to bring in Osimhen, Al-Hilal immediately shifted its focus to Son Heung-min. Tottenham hopes for Son Heung-min's retention, but if he expresses a desire to leave the team, the club will not block it."
FootMercato noted that "Al-Hilal is targeting both Bernardo Silva and Son Heung-min to build a top-level attack capable of competing in both the AFC Champions League and the league," adding that "Son Heung-min is expected to play a key role in this project."
Other media outlets also share the same perspective on Son Heung-min's potential move to Saudi Arabia. To The Rain And Back reported that "the possibility of a transfer to a Saudi club remains open, and Son Heung-min is a player with global experience and skills," noting that "former Tottenham goalkeeper Paul Robinson is also arguing that the club should keep Son Heung-min."
Robinson emphasized that "Son Heung-min is the most iconic figure among the club's assets," stating that "his intrinsic value surpasses mere transfer fees. Even if the club receives a large offer, Son Heung-min represents something greater than money."
However, the key variable that will determine Son Heung-min's future lies elsewhere. It is the new manager of Tottenham.
TBR Football reported that "Tottenham has virtually pinned Thomas Frank as the next manager, and Son Heung-min's future could change depending on Frank's tactical approach."
Frank is recognized in the Premier League for his stable team management and organic tactics shown at Brentford, and is considered the right person to lead Tottenham's rebuilding project. Sky Sports revealed that "Brentford will not stand in the way of Frank's transfer, but the club's conditions must be met."
Meanwhile, should Frank take the helm at Tottenham, squad restructuring is expected to be inevitable. Football London reported that "Frank may request the acquisition of forward Bryan Mbeumo, whom he worked with at Brentford. Currently, Mbeumo is also linked with Manchester United, but the possibility of reuniting with Frank cannot be excluded."
Thus, whether Son Heung-min transfers is interwoven not just with transfer fees or age issues, but with the entire tactical structure and team management plan.
Last season, Son Heung-min scored 11 goals and provided 12 assists in 46 matches, finishing as the team's second-highest scorer. He participated as captain in the Europa League final, leading to a 1-0 victory and becoming a key player in lifting Tottenham's trophy after 17 years. While it is not easy for the club to willingly let go of a player who contributed so much to the team, the reality is complicated.
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