Son Heung-min (33, Tottenham Hotspur) is being linked with his 'former workplace.'
Foreign media outlet OneFootball reported on the 21st (Korea time), quoting transfer expert Ben Jacobs, that "Bayer 04 Leverkusen is seeking to acquire Tottenham forward Son Heung-min."
OneFootball added, "Leverkusen wants to revive their connection, having signed Son Heung-min in 2013 for a record transfer fee, during which he scored 29 goals in 87 matches."
It also forecasted that "there is a possibility of feeling burdened by the transfer fee, as funds are needed to strengthen other positions."
Saudi Pro League clubs Al Ahli, Al Nassr, and Al Qadsiah are also showing interest in Son Heung-min.
OneFootball reported, "They are prepared to pay a transfer fee of 40 million euros (about 66.3 billion won) and are willing to offer a salary of 30 million euros (about 47.5 billion won)."
However, the key factor is Son Heung-min's will. OneFootball stated, "It remains unclear whether Son Heung-min will agree to a move to the Middle East."
Tottenham has extended Son Heung-min's contract until June 2026 at the beginning of this year to maintain his market value.
Since joining Tottenham in 2015, he has played a total of 454 matches, scoring 173 goals and providing 101 assists. He played a key role in winning the 2024-2025 UEFA Europa League.
OneFootball predicted, "Tottenham is unlikely to permit his transfer unless it involves a significant transfer fee this summer."
Financial expert Stefan Borsohn claimed through Football Insider that "the scenario of Son Heung-min transferring to Saudi Arabia is quite realistic."
Borsohn also forecasted, "Son Heung-min is a player that incurs considerable expense within the club. It is uncertain whether he can perform at the same level next season. Few clubs outside Saudi Arabia can afford his salary level."
From Tottenham's perspective, losing Son Heung-min would inevitably weaken its marketing position in the Asian market.
Nevertheless, Borsohn pointed out, "Keeping Son Heung-min as just a commercial asset would be a wrong choice. From a performance standpoint, this summer is the time for separation."
Son Heung-min is set to participate in a preseason friendly match against Arsenal in Hong Kong on July 31. He is also expected to take part in the Coupang Play series against Newcastle United at Seoul World Cup Stadium on August 3.
'BBC' projected, "Whether Son Heung-min participates will impact club revenue. Therefore, Tottenham may temporarily defer his transfer."
'Football London' also asserted, "It is difficult for Tottenham to hold matches in Korea without Son Heung-min, as the club would not want to see a decline in revenue in Korea. As a result, the announcement of his status may be delayed until after the tour."
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