Could Bayern Munich really challenge to acquire Son Heung-min (32, Tottenham Hotspur)? Talks are resurfacing in Germany.
German 'TZ' reported on the 5th, "Bayern has reportedly added a new top star to their list. Perhaps Harry Kane will be pleased."
The main character is none other than Son Heung-min. The media noted, "Bayern is currently looking for an exceptional player to strengthen their attack. One of the potential new signings knows well what it’s like to play alongside Kane. Bayern plans to bring in an experienced forward to enhance their scoring ability. According to reports, Son Heung-min is also on the list."
TZ stated, "Son Heung-min initially threatened to leave London on a free agency transfer this summer. However, he recently extended his contract for one more year until 2026. Yet, at the age of 32, if Bayern's interest becomes concrete, he may consider signing a lucrative contract with a famous European club," arguing that a transfer to Bayern is an attractive option for Son Heung-min.
The media added, "There shouldn't be a long adjustment period to worry about. Son Heung-min played with Kane at Tottenham from 2015 to 2023. During that time, they were regarded as the most dangerous attacking duo in the Premier League (PL)."
Indeed, Son Heung-min and Kane ruled as the most lethal duo in the PL during their time at Tottenham. They combined for a stunning 47 goals in the league, surpassing the previous record held by the Frank Lampard-Didier Drogba duo (36 goals) for the most combined goals in PL history. The goal tally shows Son Heung-min with 24 goals and 23 assists, while Kane scored 23 goals and provided 24 assists, splitting it evenly.
For this reason, Kane has not forgotten Son Heung-min. When asked last December which Tottenham player he would like to bring to Bayern, he replied, "I don't think Tottenham fans will be too pleased with this answer. But I would choose Son Heung-min."
Kane also added, "I have a really good relationship with Son Heung-min. We had a great partnership at Tottenham and became good friends off the pitch as well. I believe we could do quite well together in the Bundesliga."
For this reason, there is growing anticipation in Germany as well. TZ mentioned, "Kane and Son Heung-min played nearly 300 matches together over eight years and scored numerous goals. They created perfect synergy both on and off the field," noting that "Kane's thoughts aren't entirely unreasonable. Son Heung-min was connected to Bayern years ago. He began his career at Hamburg and made tremendous progress at Bayer Leverkusen. He is fluent in German and possesses two-footed ability, allowing him to play in nearly any position in the Bayern attack."
Bayern has indeed been looking for a new winger. Leroy Sané, Kingsley Coman, and Serge Gnabry, all receiving high wages, have not lived up to expectations. Moreover, Turkish journalist Ekrem Konur reported, "Bayern could consider acquiring Son Heung-min if they fail to sign Xavi Simons," fueling rumors.
Additionally, Bayern has been interested in Son Heung-min for some time. TZ noted, "This isn't the first time Bayern has shown interest in Son Heung-min. Bayern's directors have been watching him, an all-rounded attacker, since the spring of 2021. However, at that time, a new contract with Tottenham and a high transfer fee led to a failure. Bayern would have needed to pay around €85 million (approximately 131.5 billion won) to acquire Son Heung-min back then."
However, Tottenham activated an additional year on Son Heung-min's contract last January, dampening transfer rumors. It became necessary to require a transfer fee unless Tottenham suddenly changes its mind and releases him as a free agent.
However, Spanish outlet 'Pichajes' reignited the rumors of Son Heung-min's transfer to Bayern. The recent report stated, "Son Heung-min is seriously considering transferring to Bayern, and Bayern is planning to strengthen its attack further by acquiring him," claiming that "Bayern views Son Heung-min as a player that 'perfectly matches' their tactical philosophy."
The issue is indeed the transfer fee. With Son Heung-min turning 33 in July, not many teams are willing to invest a hefty sum. Considering Daniel Levy, known as a 'negotiator' and 'tightwad,' the likelihood of easily letting go of Son Heung-min also seems slim.
The Tottenham fan community 'Tottenham News' predicts, "Tottenham is already targeting Wolverhampton striker Matheus Cunha as a potential replacement for Son Heung-min. They will likely hope to receive a significant amount for Son Heung-min's value to meet his £62 million (approximately 114.1 billion won) buyout clause."
TZ also reported, "Like Kane, Son Heung-min's market value, without a title, is merely €38 million (approximately 58.8 billion won). However, it's questionable whether Bayern will actually pay this price." Tottenham may consider selling Son Heung-min if re-signing negotiations continue to be stagnant, but it appears that considerable funds would be required to bring in a replacement.
However, the presence of 'loanee' Mathys Tel could be another key factor. Tottenham acquired him on loan from Bayern last month and dreams of a permanent signing. TZ suggested, "But it's conceivable to imagine some sort of transaction with Tel, who is currently on loan at Tottenham. Ange Postecoglou, the Tottenham manager, seems to like Tel."
[Photo] Goalpost Asia, Nonstop Football, Talk Sports, Bayern for Life, Fox Deportes, Harry Kane Social Media.
[OSEN = Ko Sung-hwan, Reporter]