Son Heung-min celebrates after Tottenham Hotspur beat Manchester United 1-0 in the Europa League final at San Mames Stadium, Bilbao, Spain on May 21, 2025. Photo by Reuters |
According to The Guardianseveral Saudi Arabian clubs view Son as an ideal new symbol for the league, citing his immense commercial appeal, particularly in East Asia, and his established global profile.
Last season, the league had already expressed interest in major stars such as Mohamed Salah, Kaoru Mitoma and Victor Osimhen. Son is now reportedly at the top of that list, seen as a “unique asset” due to both his playing ability and marketing power. For years, he has been a major figure in the Premier League’s branding and engagement strategy in Asia.
In the 2024–2025 season, Son scored 11 goals and had 12 assists across 46 appearances in all competitions, helping Tottenham win the Europa League, the club’s first major trophy since 2008. However, he scored only seven goals in the Premier League, ending his eight-season streak of double-digit league goals. His form was hampered by injuries and inconsistency, raising questions about his long-term role at the club.
Despite these challenges, Son extended his contract with Spurs in January 2025 through June 2026. The extension may be part of a strategy by Tottenham to secure a transfer for the 33-year-old forward.
Saudi outlet Al Riya reports that Tottenham have set a minimum asking price of $65 million for Son, an amount that Saudi clubs are capable of paying. The figure is nearly double what Spurs originally paid Bayer Leverkusen for Son in 2015.
In the summer of 2023, Son reportedly rejected a four-year, $175 million contract offer from Al Ittihad. But with age, mounting injuries and uncertainty about Tottenham’s squad overhaul, he now faces a crucial career decision.
Tottenham, meanwhile, are already preparing for a transition. In July 2024, the club signed 19-year-old forward Yang Min-hyeok on a six-year deal from Gangwon FC. Yang remained in South Korea before joining QPR on loan in January 2025. He is expected to return to Tottenham this summer.
The North London club is also planning a pre-season tour in South Korea, with dates yet to be confirmed. Based on past schedules, the tour is expected between late July and early August. However, if Son makes a move to Saudi Pro League once their transfer window opens on July 20, Spurs may visit his home country without their captain.