"I love you, my captain." As reports continue that Tottenham Hotspur has placed Son Heung-min (33) on the transfer market, James Maddison (29, also Tottenham) sent a heartfelt birthday message, indicating a desire for him to stay.
Football Insider reported on the 9th (Korean time) that "Tottenham is prepared to listen to transfer offers for Son Heung-min."
According to the report, Tottenham believes this summer is the time to sell Son Heung-min at his "highest value," and they are positioned to allow a transfer if a suitable offer comes in.
In fact, Son Heung-min has a contract remaining until the summer of 2025, but Tottenham activated a one-year extension option earlier this year. However, if they go beyond this summer, they will enter negotiations close to a free agency, making this the last "cash-out" point from the club's perspective.
Amid this, teammate Maddison shared a message on social media story feature for Son Heung-min's birthday, saying, "Happy Birthday my boy! Love ya brother! My captain." The accompanying photo captured the moment last season when Son Heung-min, wearing the captain's armband, embraced Maddison after lifting the trophy in the Europa League final.
Son Heung-min led Tottenham to win the Europa League last season, recording 173 goals and 101 assists in a total of 454 matches, securing his status as a legendary figure in the club's history. However, interest from Saudi Arabian clubs is once again focusing on him, and there are speculations that he may take a more flexible position regarding a transfer.
Meanwhile, the same report added that Richarlison is also one of the players with a high possibility of being transferred. The Brazilian international forward has struggled to secure consistent playing time at Tottenham and is reported to want a transfer this summer.
Tottenham is currently in negotiations to acquire Mohammed Kudus from West Ham United, and the possibility of restructuring to improve their attacking resources is also being discussed. If both Son Heung-min and Richarlison were to leave simultaneously, a significant reshaping of Tottenham's forward line seems inevitable.
[OSEN]