"Will a true dream transfer become a reality?"
Turkish journalist Yagiz Sabuncuoglu, who is well-versed in the Turkish transfer market and internal affairs of Fenerbahce, reported on the 15th (Korea time) that "It is true that Fenerbahce is interested in Son Heung-min," noting that "Taxes Mourinho, the Fenerbahce manager, personally met with Son Heung-min."
Under the leadership of Taxes Mourinho, Fenerbahce SK, a prestigious club in Turkey, has actively pursued the signing of Son Heung-min. The UK outlet 'Hotspur HQ,' citing Turkish media 'Fanatik,' reported that on the 15th (Korea time), Mourinho wants to embrace Son Heung-min, a former disciple from his Tottenham days, and that Fenerbahce is providing full support.
In fact, the club is reported to have approved a salary package so extravagant that it is called a "crazy offer" for Son Heung-min. The Turkish league, which had previously been known as a peripheral league in Europe, has seen a shift in atmosphere recently. First, Turkey's prestigious and Fenerbahce’s arch-rival, Galatasaray, significantly strengthened its squad through aggressive signings. Facing such enormous investment, Fenerbahce finished as the runner-up last season.
Moreover, the movements of Galatasaray in this summer transfer market are noteworthy. They acquired Leroy Sane, who was released after failed contract negotiations with Bayern Munich. Galatasaray is reported to have invested heavily in Sane's salary without incurring a transfer fee.
Fenerbahce is also in a situation where a counterattack is necessary. The situation for Son Heung-min is no different. The reason this summer's rumors about Son Heung-min's transfer are being noted is not mere speculation but rather signs of actual change. Until 2023, Son Heung-min firmly denied rumors of a transfer to the Saudi Arabian professional league, but recently, he left the door open by stating, "It might be good to wait and see. I am quite curious too."
Son Heung-min's change in attitude has led to interpretations that the possibility of his transfer has increased both inside and outside the club. In fact, while Tottenham's contract with Son Heung-min extends until the summer of 2026, the club is internally strategizing with a focus on generational change, believing that this summer represents the last realistic opportunity to receive a transfer fee.
Under the new head coach Thomas Frank's regime, Son Heung-min's future is one of the key issues. According to some reports, it is known that the issue of Son Heung-min's status was discussed first after Frank took over as coach. Additionally, Tottenham is currently negotiating to fully acquire Mathys Tel (20), who was signed on loan from Bayern Munich.
Tel made 20 appearances for Tottenham in the second half of last season, scoring 3 goals and contributing to the UEFA Europa League-winning squad, and he is evaluated as a resource for post-Son Heung-min. Son Heung-min's current salary is reported to be around £10 million (approximately 18.6 billion won). Fenerbahce is reported to have promised a salary significantly higher than that.
According to reports, Fenerbahce is prepared to offer about €23 million to €24 million (approximately 36.3 billion to 38 billion won), which is a level that ranks among the top in Europe. In this context, reuniting with Manager Mourinho is a meaningful option for Son Heung-min in all tactical aspects.
Under Manager Mourinho, Son Heung-min recorded 29 goals and 25 assists in 70 matches, displaying his best form, and Mourinho has assessed Son Heung-min as "one of the most important players in Tottenham's history." In fact, if the transfer materializes, Son Heung-min would be able to start a new career at a club with a higher salary and the possibility of advancing to the Champions League.
Additionally, reports from top Turkish journalists have emerged. Sabuncuoglu stated, "To acquire Son Heung-min, Manager Mourinho took the initiative to meet with the player. He has maintained a good relationship with Manager Mourinho since his time at Tottenham," adding that "As a result, Son Heung-min is also open to the possibility of moving to Fenerbahce. The Tottenham club is also willing to sell."
He continued, "Tottenham's asking price for the transfer is €30 million. If the club agrees to pay the transfer fee, it is very likely to proceed as planned," noting, "The player is also open to the idea of transferring to Fenerbahce, and the transfer fee is set. Now it only remains for Fenerbahce to make a decision."
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