Saudi Arabia's financial power is once again directed at Son Heung-min (33, Tottenham). The strongest club, Al-Hilal, has taken direct action. Reports suggest that Son Heung-min has been targeted as a substitute resource following the failure to sign Victor Osimhen, the star striker from Napoli.

Football365 reported on the 10th (Korean time) that "Al-Hilal immediately turned its attention to Son Heung-min after failing to acquire Osimhen. Tottenham does not want to see Son Heung-min leave, but if he wishes to leave, they have shown a position that they will not stand in the way of a transfer."

Footmercato explained, "Al-Hilal aims to build a world-class attacking lineup to balance the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Champions League and the league, and following Bernardo Silva, Son Heung-min is classified as a major candidate, making him a key puzzle piece."

The possibility of Son Heung-min's transfer has been consistently raised. To the Rain and Back reported, "The possibility of going to Saudi Arabia is still open," including comments from former Tottenham goalkeeper Paul Robinson. Robinson emphasized, "Son Heung-min is still a player with the experience and competitiveness to succeed in Europe. Tottenham should not let him go easily."

He continued, "No matter how large the offer is, the symbolism and value of Son Heung-min's performance hold greater meaning," and asserted, "Tottenham has no reason to sell Son Heung-min."

However, determining Son Heung-min's future is difficult with just a simple transfer fee proposal. Given the ongoing internal restructuring at Tottenham, the plans of the new manager are expected to be the biggest variable.

TBR Football reported, "As Thomas Frank emerges as a leading candidate for the next manager, Son Heung-min's future could depend on Frank's tactical choices." It also noted that discussions are ongoing on how to structure the team's core following the appointment of the manager.

Frank, who has proven stable leadership in the Premier League while leading Brentford, is currently in close contact with Tottenham. Sky Sports reported, "Brentford will not prevent Frank from challenging on a bigger stage, but a transfer will only be allowed if the club's desired conditions are met."

The appointment of the manager is also connected to another acquisition scenario. Football London reported, "If Frank becomes the manager of Tottenham, the possibility of requesting the acquisition of Brian Mbemo, who worked alongside him at Brentford, is high," analyzing, "While Mbemo has the potential for a transfer to Manchester United, a reunion with Frank cannot be ruled out."

Ultimately, the appointment of Frank could directly affect Son Heung-min's position. Changes in the structural core of team tactics and positional competition dynamics are bound to have a direct impact on Son Heung-min's decision to stay or transfer.

In the 2023-2024 season, Son Heung-min recorded 11 goals and 12 assists in 46 matches, finishing second in team scoring. He led the team to victory while wearing the captain's armband in the Europa League final, lifting Tottenham's first trophy in 17 years. Although he is a player with both symbolism and skill, Tottenham is currently undergoing a major rebuilding phase. The challenges of a managerial change and a renewed attempt in European competitions also remain.

[OSEN]