Son Heung-min (33, Tottenham Hotspur) is deep in thought over whether to remain in Europe. Amidst large offers pouring in from Saudi Arabia, it has been reported that his former team Bayer Leverkusen is quietly exploring the possibility of his return.

TalkSport reported on the 17th (Korean time) that "Leverkusen began contacting Son Heung-min's camp since May," adding that "for Son Heung-min, who is preparing for the 2026 North American World Cup, remaining in Europe is still an attractive card." Transfer market expert Ben Jacobs also noted, "Leverkusen has not made an official offer yet, but is actively considering the possibility of a return."

The partnership between Tottenham and Son Heung-min is also heading towards a conclusion. Currently, the contract has one year remaining until June 2026, making this summer Tottenham's last opportunity to recoup the transfer fee. Son Heung-min also feels that he has fulfilled his duties as captain after the victory in the Europa League in May.

This summer is likely to be a significant turning point in Son Heung-min's career. With approaches from foreign clubs like Fenerbahçe, Al Ahli, and Al Nassr continuing, the mention of Leverkusen is interpreted as a practical option that goes beyond mere nostalgia for a return.

Saudi Arabian league clubs are reportedly setting a transfer fee of 40 million euros (63.3 billion won) for Son Heung-min. Additionally, Fenerbahçe, which contacted him directly, is preparing a massive contract by promising an annual salary of 19 billion won.

However, Son Heung-min's priority remains the European stage. In a recent interview, he stated, "It’s better to wait rather than speak right now," showing a cautious stance regarding the transfer. This marks a significant shift from his past assertion that "the captain of South Korea will not go to Saudi Arabia."

If a move to Leverkusen materializes, it brings to mind the return route of Park Ji-sung. After finishing his time at Manchester United and QPR, Park returned to PSV, the starting point of his European career, to end on a high note. Similarly, since Son Heung-min has achieved everything in the Premier League, he may contemplate a conclusion at Leverkusen, where he grew as a European star.

Leverkusen secured a spot in the UEFA Champions League by finishing 2nd in the 2024-2025 Bundesliga season. This may be the only option available for Son Heung-min to participate in what could essentially be his last UCL stage. In contrast, the Saudi league is less appealing in terms of preparation for the World Cup.

There are variables at play. Manager Xabi Alonso has left for Real Madrid, and key players Florian Wirtz and Jonathan Tah have confirmed moves to Liverpool and Bayern Munich, respectively. The diminished strength of Leverkusen puts them in a reorganization phase. However, the combination fronted by Granit Xhaka remains competitive.

There are also other obstacles to Son Heung-min's return to Leverkusen. One is the memory of past experiences. During his time in Germany, Son endured multiple instances of racism off the pitch, expressing psychological distress. This could be a decisive factor affecting his return.

Meanwhile, opinions on the timing of Son Heung-min's transfer are divided. The Times reported that "Tottenham sees the friendly match against Newcastle on August 3 in Seoul as the last stage for utilizing Son Heung-min," stating they will allow a transfer only after commercial value is fully exhausted.

It continued, "Tottenham has proposed a long-term re-signing, but Son Heung-min declined it," adding that "Son Heung-min himself is now open to a new challenge."

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