Money is money, but honor and teachers are all appealing. And even though it's a fringe, there’s an opportunity to continue challenging in European football.
The renowned Turkish club Fenerbahçe SK, led by Taxes Mourinho, is actively pursuing the acquisition of Son Heung-min. According to the British outlet 'HotspurHQ', citing the Turkish media 'Fanatik', on the 15th (Korea time), Manager Mourinho wants to embrace Son Heung-min, his former student from Tottenham, once again, and it is reported that Fenerbahçe is fully supporting this situation.
In fact, the club is said to have approved a salary package so impressive that it is being called a 'crazy offer' for Son Heung-min. The Turkish league, which was previously known as a fringe league in Europe, has seen a change in atmosphere recently. First, Turkey’s prestigious club and Fenerbahçe’s rival Galatasaray has significantly strengthened their squad through aggressive signings. With this massive investment, Fenerbahçe finished as runners-up last season.
Moreover, Galatasaray's movements in this summer's transfer market are noteworthy. They acquired Leroy Sané, who was released after a failed salary negotiation with Bayern Munich. It is reported that Galatasaray invested heavily in Sané's salary instead of paying a transfer fee.
Fenerbahçe is also in a situation where a counterattack is necessary. Son Heung-min's situation is different from a transfer. The reason Son Heung-min's transfer rumors have gained attention this summer is not mere speculation, but indicative signs of actual change. Up until 2023, Son Heung-min firmly denied rumors of a transfer to the Saudi Arabian Professional League, but recently expressed a willingness to wait, saying, "I think it would be good to wait and see. I’m quite curious myself."
Son Heung-min's change in attitude has led to interpretations that the likelihood of a transfer has increased, both inside and outside the club. In fact, Tottenham still has a contract with Son Heung-min until the summer of 2026, but the club internally strategizes with the judgment that this summer is the last realistic chance to receive a transfer fee.
Under the new management of Thomas Frank, Son Heung-min's future is one of the key issues, and some reports suggest that the transfer situation of Son Heung-min was among the first topics discussed after Frank took over. Additionally, Tottenham is in negotiations to fully acquire Mathys Tel (20), whom they had on loan from Bayern Munich.
Tel recorded 3 goals in 20 games at Tottenham during the latter half of last season and is evaluated as a potential resource post-Son Heung-min. Son Heung-min's current salary is reported to be around $10 million (approximately 18.6 billion won). Fenerbahçe is rumored to have promised a salary far exceeding this.
According to reports, Fenerbahçe is prepared to offer nearly double that amount, around €23 to €24 million (approximately 36.3 billion to 38 billion won), which is considered a top-tier level in the European stage. In this context, reuniting with Manager Mourinho presents a strategically meaningful option for Son Heung-min in all tactical aspects.
Under Manager Mourinho, Son Heung-min recorded 29 goals and 25 assists in 70 games, showcasing his best form, and Manager Mourinho has evaluated Son Heung-min as "one of the most important players in Tottenham's history." If the transfer materializes, Son Heung-min could start a new career at a club offering a higher salary and with prospects for Champions League participation.
If Son Heung-min dons the Fenerbahçe uniform, the Turkish Süper Lig would instantly elevate to a 'battle of stars' with Galatasaray’s Sané facing off against Fenerbahçe’s Son Heung-min. For Manager Mourinho, reuniting with his former student, whom he referred to as 'legendary at Tottenham,' is a secret weapon to aim for both Champions League tickets and the league title.
Fenerbahçe’s efforts against Galatasaray do not end with just Son Heung-min. Under Manager Mourinho, the club is in contact with several big names recognized on the European stage. The transfer war between Galatasaray and Fenerbahçe could fundamentally change the marketability of the league itself.
Like Sané, Son Heung-min is a symbol and starting point. While Galatasaray shook the market with star power like Sané, Fenerbahçe intends to respond with superstar Son Heung-min. The joining of Son Heung-min, the top star in Asia and a world-class winger, could be a pivotal move that elevates not only Fenerbahçe but the entire Turkish league.
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