Italian media cites Oh Hyeon-gyu's interview, highlighting Son's potential and MLS loan clause

[OSEN=Ko Sung-hwan Reporter] How desperate must they have been? An Italian local media outlet approached Oh Hyeon-gyu (24, KRC Genk) to ask about the possibility of Son Heung-min (33, LAFC) joining AC Milan on loan.

Milan News, an Italian outlet covering Milan-related news, reported on the 24th (Korean time) that "Oh Hyeon-gyu mentioned the possibility of Son Heung-min joining Milan on loan and stated that he is still at a level where he can perform for Milan," citing an exclusive interview with Oh Hyeon-gyu.

The outlet noted, "Recently, rumors have circulated that Son Heung-min could join Milan on loan during the upcoming winter break in the American Major League Soccer (MLS). Like David Beckham did in 2009 and 2010, this is not just a transfer rumor but a realistic possibility."

Hope was also found in Oh Hyeon-gyu's response. Milan News added, "The remarks by Oh Hyeon-gyu, a national teammate of Son Heung-min and a star at Genk, support this. In an interview with journalist Alessandro Schiavone, he expressed confidence that Son Heung-min, despite being 33 years old, can still make a difference in top leagues."

Schiavone asked Oh Hyeon-gyu, "There are many talks about Son Heung-min joining AC Milan on loan. Based on your experience of knowing him and playing together in the national team, does this rumor feel like it could be true?"

Oh Hyeon-gyu found the question somewhat surprising. He responded, "I am aware. However, the decision ultimately lies with Son Heung-min. Anything can happen," leaving the possibility open.

Additionally, Schiavone asked, "Son Heung-min has struggled recently at Tottenham. Does he still possess the skills to play in a league like Serie A? How is his life in the U.S.?"

Oh Hyeon-gyu answered, "Son Heung-min still has top-tier skills! He would do well at a big club like Milan or any other team. Whether he goes to Milan during the MLS break is up to Son Heung-min. I heard life in LA is great. I've never been there, so I really want to visit. Now, my goal is to play in LA during the next World Cup."

He also expressed admiration for Son Heung-min. Oh Hyeon-gyu said, "Son Heung-min is my idol. Since I was young, I watched all of Son Heung-min's matches. He is also the captain of our national team. I want to follow in Son Heung-min's footsteps."

Schiavone mentioned, "(Son Heung-min) is said to be a 'true rockstar' like Elvis Presley in Korea." Oh Hyeon-gyu replied, "Me? Or Son Heung-min? Everyone knows Son Heung-min. Whether on the streets or anywhere else, people recognize him. Life in Korea must not be easy for Son Heung-min," smiling.

The conversation also touched on the 2026 North America FIFA World Cup, set to take place in the U.S. next summer. Italian football, which was eliminated in the Round of 16 after losing to South Korea in the 2002 Korea-Japan World Cup, still remembers the incident 23 years ago. Schiavone asked, "After reaching the semifinals at home in the 2002 World Cup, can South Korea, led by Son Heung-min and Oh Hyeon-gyu, advance to the semifinals for the first time in 24 years?"

Oh Hyeon-gyu responded with determination, "It's our dream. The World Cup qualifiers were excellent. We are well-prepared. We achieved a good result in the final match against Paraguay. The match against Brazil will also help us grow. We are ready."

Son Heung-min has recently been surrounded by rumors of a short-term loan to Milan. Earlier, the British outlet The Sun exclusively reported, "MLS star Son Heung-min could make a shocking return to the Premier League thanks to the 'David Beckham clause.' The former Tottenham captain has had a similar impact to Messi in MLS, and it is understood that his contract with LAFC includes a clause allowing him to return to Europe during the offseason."

The Sun added, "Son Heung-min's contract includes a clause similar to the one Beckham had when he joined LA Galaxy. Thanks to that, Beckham was able to play for AC Milan during the MLS break. Thierry Henry also had a similar contract, allowing him to be loaned to Arsenal from New York Red Bulls in 2012."

Amid speculation about a return to Tottenham, a surprising story emerged: Serie A powerhouse Milan could also pursue Son Heung-min's loan during the January transfer window. Italy's Gazzetta dello Sport reported, "Milan is reportedly considering loaning Son Heung-min under the so-called 'Beckham clause.' The star, who would excite fans, could be an attractive short-term signing."

Son Heung-min, who scored 9 goals and provided 3 assists in 10 matches immediately after joining MLS, is a viable option for Milan. Italian commentator Carlo Pellegatti also expressed excitement, saying, "If Son Heung-min comes, Milan's attack will be complete. He would drive me crazy." The fact that they approached Oh Hyeon-gyu to ask about Son Heung-min's transfer rumors shows how closely the Italian media is watching him.

/finekosh@osen.co.kr

[Photos] 365 Scores, Sports 360, Milan News, LAFC Social Media.

AC Milan Eyes Son Heung-min Loan as Oh Hyeon-gyu Leaves Door Open