Son Heung-min (33, Tottenham Hotspur) is at an unexpected crossroads. While his former team Bayer Leverkusen is trying to embrace him again, the substantial offers from Saudi clubs are introducing new variables into his situation.
OneFootball reported on the 21st (Korean time) citing the remarks of transfer expert Ben Jacobs that "Bayer Leverkusen is contemplating re-signing Son Heung-min." From 2013 to 2015, Son Heung-min wore the Bayer Leverkusen uniform, scoring 29 goals in 87 matches while making a mark on the European stage.
OneFootball also stated, "Bayer Leverkusen has the will to reconnect with this past bond."
However, the realistic barriers remain high. Tottenham has extended Son Heung-min's contract until 2026 last winter, thoroughly managing his market value. Additionally, Son Heung-min’s weekly salary, which is at the upper level of the Premier League, is a significant burden for the German club.
At the same time, clubs from the Saudi Arabian Professional League are actively seeking to sign Son Heung-min. Multiple clubs, including Al Ahli, Al Nassr, and Al Qadisiyyah, are reportedly considering a transfer fee of 40 million euros (66.3 billion won) and an annual salary of 30 million euros (47.5 billion won). This amount is beyond what most European clubs can match.
Foreign media analysis suggests that ultimately, Son Heung-min's determination will be a key factor in deciding whether to transfer. If he still has the ambition to compete at the top level in Europe, there’s a chance he could return to Bayer Leverkusen or stay, but should he opt for stable compensation at the end of his career, moving to Saudi Arabia could be a possibility.
Son Heung-min has made a total of 173 goals and 101 assists in 454 matches for Tottenham, earning a place among the club legends. Notably, he contributed to the Europa League championship last season, bringing in his first European trophy. However, as he enters his mid-30s, he is facing concerns over fluctuating performances and the aging curve controversy.
There are also speculations that Tottenham may postpone the decision on Son Heung-min's status until after the Asian tour. Son Heung-min is set to participate in a preseason match against Arsenal in Hong Kong on July 31 and against Newcastle United at Seoul World Cup Stadium on August 3. The BBC reported, "Son Heung-min's participation has a significant impact on Tottenham's revenue structure. The club may delay the timing of the transfer announcement considering the marketing effects."
Football London shares a similar viewpoint. They added, "It would be difficult for Tottenham to hold matches in Korea without Son Heung-min for the Korean fans. Therefore, the announcement of his transfer is likely to be postponed until after the Asian tour."
Son Heung-min himself recently expressed his views on his future after the A-match against Kuwait. He said, "Fans are curious, and I am the same. It is too early to be certain about what choice I will make right now," while also stating, "I will always do my best with a prepared attitude in any environment."
[OSEN]