Son Heung-min may accept backup role to stay with Tottenham amid transfer rumors

There are also views anticipating the possibility of 'Captain' Son Heung-min (33, Tottenham) staying.

Tottenham Hotspur News reported on the 10th (Korea time) that "Son Heung-min is one of several players facing an uncertain future at Tottenham" and noted, "Son Heung-min may accept a backup role to remain with the team." This was based on claims made by John Weham, who is familiar with the internal situation.

Son Heung-min lifted his first championship trophy since his debut in the UEFA Europa League (UEL) this season, breaking the cycle of not winning. Tottenham also reached the pinnacle of a major tournament for the first time in 17 years.

However, Son Heung-min, who extended his contract for another year in January, has struggled with inconsistent performances in the second half of the season, leading to discussions about an 'aging curve.' The need for a generational shift has been raised in the UK, bringing his transfer rumors to the forefront.

The UK’s Telegraph reported that "Tottenham has begun restructuring its squad to secure funding for transfers and return to the UEFA Champions League (UCL) next season," and is also considering a transfer for captain Son Heung-min.

Tottenham recently sacked manager Ange Postecoglou, putting the team at another crossroads for restructuring.

Weham noted that "If a bid of £60 million (about 111 billion won) comes in, Tottenham could sell Son Heung-min," but emphasized that "Son Heung-min will likely stay with the team next season and take on a less significant role." This opinion suggests that even if Son Heung-min takes on a backup role with interest from a Saudi Arabian league team, he would prefer to remain with Tottenham, where he has strong ties, over financial considerations.

European football transfer market expert Fabrizio Romano stated that "Son Heung-min's agent recently contacted a Saudi Arabian club" and added, "There is no news of a contract being signed yet, but this indicates that a move to Saudi Arabia remains a possibility," thus fueling transfer speculation.

The thoughts of Tottenham's next head coach are expected to influence Son Heung-min's decision to stay. If the coach wishes to retain Son Heung-min, a supportive atmosphere may develop at the club.

Regarding the numerous transfer rumors, Son Heung-min emphasized after the A-match against Kuwait on the 10th, "Both the fans and I are quite curious. Rather than worrying about the future, I think it’s better to watch and see what happens right now. No matter where I play or what role I take, I will always be a player who prepares and strives to do my best. I will continue to do my best in whatever position I find myself in."

[OSEN]