Galatasaray's star squad vs. Fenerbahçe's Son Heung-min & taxes' strongest disciple.
Turkish journalist Yagiz Shabunjookulu, who is well-versed in Turkey's transfer market and Fenerbahçe's internal affairs, reported on the 15th (Korean time) that "it is true that Fenerbahçe is interested in Son Heung-min," adding that "taxes, the Fenerbahçe coach, met Son Heung-min directly."
The prestigious Turkish club Fenerbahçe SK, led by Coach taxes, has actively pursued the recruitment of Son Heung-min. British media outlet 'HotspurHQ' cited Turkish media 'Fanatik,' stating that on the 15th (Korean time), Coach taxes wants to embrace Son Heung-min again, a former disciple from his Tottenham days, and that Fenerbahçe is providing full support in this situation.
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 was previously known as a peripheral league in Europe, but the recent atmosphere has changed. First, Galatasaray, Fenerbahçe's archrival and a prestigious club in Turkey, has significantly strengthened its squad through aggressive recruitment. Fenerbahçe, overwhelmed by such massive investments, only managed to finish as runners-up last season.
Moreover, Galatasaray's movements in this summer's transfer market are noteworthy. They have acquired Leroy Sané, who was released after failed salary negotiations with Bayern Munich. Galatasaray is reported to have invested a substantial salary for Sané instead of spending a transfer fee.
Fenerbahçe is also in a situation that requires a counterattack. Son Heung-min's situation is quite different from a transfer. The reason Son Heung-min's transfer rumors have gained attention this summer is due to significant signs of change, rather than mere speculation. Until 2023, Son Heung-min firmly denied rumors of transferring to the Saudi Pro League, but recently left the door open by stating, "I think it would be good to wait. I am quite curious as well."
Son Heung-min's change in attitude has led to interpretations that the possibility of a transfer has increased both inside and outside the club. In reality, Tottenham still has a contract with Son Heung-min until the summer of 2026, but they are strategically considering a generational change internally, believing this summer is the last realistic opportunity to receive a transfer fee.
Under new coach Thomas Frank, Son Heung-min's future is one of the key issues, and some reports indicate that Frank immediately discussed Son Heung-min's situation upon assuming his position. Additionally, Tottenham is in negotiations to permanently acquire Mathys Tel (20), who was loaned from Bayern Munich.
Tel has recorded 3 goals in 20 matches for Tottenham in the second half of last season and was a member of the Europa League-winning squad while also being evaluated as a post-Son Heung-min resource. Son Heung-min's current salary is reported to be around £10 million (approximately 18.6 billion won). Fenerbahçe is said to have promised a salary far exceeding that.
According to reports, Fenerbahçe is prepared to offer nearly twice that amount, around €23 million to €24 million (approximately 36.3 billion to 38 billion won), which ranks at the top level in Europe. In this context, reuniting with Coach taxes presents a tactically significant option for Son Heung-min.
Under Coach taxes, Son Heung-min recorded 29 goals and 25 assists in 70 matches, showcasing his best form, and Coach taxes has previously described him as "one of the most important players in Tottenham's history." If the transfer materializes, Son Heung-min could start a new career with a club that offers higher wages and the possibility of participating in the Champions League.
Additionally, a report from a top Turkish journalist has emerged. Shabunjookulu stated, "Coach taxes personally approached to meet the player for the recruitment of Son Heung-min. He maintained a good relationship with Coach taxes during his previous time at Tottenham," adding that "as a result, Son Heung-min himself is open to moving to Fenerbahçe. Tottenham is also willing to sell."
He continued, "Tottenham's asking transfer fee is €30 million (approximately 47.3 billion won). If the club pays the transfer fee, it is highly likely to proceed as is," noting, "The player himself is open to moving to Fenerbahçe, and the transfer fee has been set. Now, it is just up to Fenerbahçe's decision."
If Son Heung-min wears the Fenerbahçe uniform, the Turkish Süper Lig will level up dramatically into a 'war of stars' where Galatasaray's Sané faces off against Fenerbahçe's Son Heung-min. From Coach taxes' perspective, reuniting with his "all-time great" disciple represents a strategic advantage to aim for both the Champions League ticket and league victory.
Against Galatasaray, Fenerbahçe is not simply relying on Son Heung-min. Under Coach taxes, the club has been in contact with several big names that are gaining attention on the European stage. Due to the recruitment war between Galatasaray and Fenerbahçe, the league's marketability itself could change.
Like Sané, Son Heung-min is both a symbol and a starting point. While Galatasaray aims to shake up the market with star power like Sané, Fenerbahçe seeks to respond with superstar Son Heung-min. The addition of Son Heung-min, the top star of Asia and a world-class winger, could serve as a decisive move that elevates not only Fenerbahçe but the entire Turkish league.
It remains to be seen whether Fenerbahçe's strongest disciple duo can elevate the level of the Turkish league against Galatasaray's star squad.
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