'Tottenham symbol' Son Heung-min (33) is finally approaching the time to say goodbye to North London after lifting the UEFA Europa League (UEL) trophy.
Tottenham News reported on the 8th (Korea time) that 'Son Heung-min has decided to leave, and Saudi clubs are actively pursuing his transfer. He could leave North London this summer.'
The media added, 'Son Heung-min is consolidating his departure from Tottenham almost after 10 years. He is a legend of Tottenham, and his decision to stay for trophies has received unwavering love from fans. However, all good things must come to an end.'
Local opinion also weighs on Son Heung-min's potential move to Saudi Arabia. The UK 'Sky Bet' has set the odds for Son Heung-min's joining the Saudi Pro League at 4/9 (approximately 69.2%). Even the odds makers seem to favor his move to the Middle East.
In fact, Tottenham relieved their 17-year trophy drought last season by winning the UEL. Despite recording the worst performance in the Premier League at 17th place, they ended on a happy note with the victory on the European stage. It was also a season that marked Son Heung-min's first major trophy and the end of a 10-year journey.
This victory became a starting gun. Just 16 days after the victory, Tottenham dismissed head coach Ange Postecoglou and appointed Brentford's Thomas Frank. The 'aging curve' of Son Heung-min, now 33, cannot be ignored. Although he remained a key player with 11 goals and 11 assists in 46 appearances last season, his streak of eight consecutive seasons with double-digit league goals came to an end.
Coach Frank is willing to work with Son Heung-min, but it is expected he will not stand in his way if he decides to leave. 'Sky Sports' reported that 'Tottenham will respect Son Heung-min's decision and could allow his transfer if a suitable offer comes.' It remains uncertain whether Son Heung-min will be a regular starter in the upcoming season.
Speculation about Son Heung-min's transfer is not new. Two years ago, he received a substantial offer from Saudi Arabia but firmly rejected it. However, the atmosphere is different this summer. The UK 'Football London' pointed out that 'the possibility of Son Heung-min leaving Tottenham this summer is higher than ever.' Son Heung-min himself said, 'I am also curious about the future. Let's see what happens,' leaving room for uncertainty.
The likely destinations for his transfer include Saudi Arabia and the United States. The U.S. Los Angeles FC also inquired about acquiring Son Heung-min but was turned down, while Saudi clubs Al Ahli, Al Nassr, and Al Qadisiya are reportedly preparing a transfer fee of 40 million euros and a total salary of 90 million euros over three years. Saudi Arabia is showing interest in bringing Asian football legends.
Regardless of Son Heung-min's situation, the acquisition of his successor is also progressing rapidly. Tottenham has already fully acquired Matthias Tel, who was previously on loan, and is also pursuing a deal for West Ham's Mohammed Kudus. The winger Mikey Moore, born in 2007, is also expected to receive more opportunities if Son Heung-min departs.
'Tottenham News' analyzed that 'Son Heung-min's transfer is connected to Moore's future.' The scene of Son Heung-min lifting the trophy and concluding a decade-long journey is a scenario that would bring tears to many fans. However, whether the moment of separation will come this summer or be delayed until next time is up to Son Heung-min. Fans are ready to applaud his choice.
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