There are reports that Son Heung-min (33, Tottenham) is unlikely to go to the United States.
The British media 'The Sun' reported on the 5th (Korea time) that it seems Tottenham captain Son Heung-min, who appears to be seeking a new challenge, has rejected a transfer to Major League Soccer (MLS) in the U.S.
Recently, the MLS's Los Angeles (LA) FA was consolidated with Son Heung-min.
LA FC is currently searching for a new forward to fill the void left by Olivier Giroud, who transferred to French league Lille. As such, Son Heung-min has emerged as a candidate for acquisition.
The MLS operates under a salary cap system, but it can register up to three players as 'designated players' without a salary limit. LA FC, lacking Giroud, was reported to be planning to use this system to acquire Son Heung-min. 'TBR Football' analyzed on the 3rd that 'LA FC is in a position to offer Son Heung-min a high salary due to Giroud's departure.'
The U.S. is a co-host of the North America World Cup in 2026. Recently, the soccer market in the U.S. has been rapidly growing. If Son Heung-min transfers to the MLS, it could be a significant step in preparing for the World Cup.
However, 'The Sun' argued that 'Son Heung-min's move to the U.S. seems unlikely at this point. LA FC may have to wait until January next year or up to 12 months.'
At the same time, it was reported that 'Son Heung-min is still receiving interest from Saudi Arabia. José Mourinho, the manager of Turkish league club Fenerbahçe, also wants him.'
Earlier this month, European soccer transfer market expert Fabrizio Romano appeared on the global sports media 'DAZN' podcast and said, 'Son Heung-min's agent has built good relations with Saudi clubs. There have been discussions in recent weeks. It is true that Saudi clubs have shown interest in Son Heung-min.' However, he noted, 'No official negotiations or proposals have been exchanged with Tottenham yet. The negotiations are in the early stages.'
Son Heung-min, who joined Tottenham in 2015, has played 454 matches over 10 seasons, recording 173 goals and 101 assists. However, ahead of the 2024-2025 season, he is being assessed as having entered the aging curve.
Last season, Son Heung-min only managed 7 goals and 10 assists in the league. His streak of double-digit goal tallies for eight consecutive seasons was broken. Nevertheless, he led the Europa League victory, lifting his first trophy since joining Tottenham. In this way, Son Heung-min has achieved all the goals possible at Tottenham.
Currently, Son Heung-min's contract with Tottenham lasts until June 2026. There are predictions in local circles that it may be the right time for both Tottenham and Son Heung-min to choose a beautiful farewell.
Tottenham has stated that they will respect Son Heung-min's decision. They will not force him to stay if a transfer request is made.
In this situation, it appears that moving to the U.S. is no longer an option for Son Heung-min, at least for now.
[Photo] Son Heung-min ⓒGettyimages (Unauthorized reproduction and redistribution prohibited)
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