“Love ya brother, My captain.” James Maddison's (29) heartfelt message to Son Heung-min (33, Tottenham) touched the hearts of fans. Even amidst ongoing transfer rumors, his teammate did not hide his desire for him to stay.
Football Insider reported on the 9th (Korea time) that “Tottenham is prepared to listen to transfer offers for Son Heung-min. Tottenham believes this summer is the last opportunity to sell Son at the highest value.”
Son Heung-min solidified his status as the 'symbol of the club' by leading Tottenham to victory in the Europa League last season. He has a total of 454 matches with 173 goals and 101 assists. Clearly, he is a legend defined by numbers.
However, even Tottenham has begun to draw the line regarding his future.
Tottenham had already extended his contract earlier this year by exercising a one-year extension option with Son Heung-min. However, missing this timing would lead to a transition into free agency negotiations, indicating that now is indeed the last opportunity for Tottenham to cash in.
Amidst this, Maddison left a special message through social media on Son Heung-min's birthday. He shared a photo of embracing Son during the Europa League final along with the caption, “Happy birthday my boy! Love ya brother! My captain.” This marked a historic moment when Tottenham lifted the European trophy after a long wait.
This message reads as a sincere support wishing for Son Heung-min's retention, rather than just a birthday congratulation. Among local fans in the UK, reactions like “I hope Maddison's words reach the club” are continuing.
Interest in Son Heung-min remains high. Particularly, the conditions presented by Saudi Arabian clubs include a three-year contract worth 30 million euros, totaling 144.6 billion won. This offer is evaluated as being at the upper echelon of the Premier League. Until now, Son had been firm in his stance, but recently he has indicated a willingness to keep options open, saying, “Decisions are to be seen later.”
Football Insider also classified Richarlison as one of the highly probable assets for transfer. The Brazilian international forward has struggled to regain form since joining Tottenham, and local reports indicate that he wants to part ways with Tottenham.
In addition, Tottenham is also negotiating to acquire Mohammed Kudus from West Ham. This is seen as an attempt to overhaul the entire forward line, potentially signaling a rebuilding phase predicated on the simultaneous departure of Son Heung-min and Richarlison.
Son Heung-min's choice is not limited to just whether or not to transfer. It could significantly influence the symbolism of Tottenham, the strength of the team, and the emotional connection with fans. Maddison's message reflects the heartfelt wish of a teammate not to lose that symbolism.
Now, the moment of decision is approaching. Will Son Heung-min stay or leave?
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