Son Heung-min (33, Tottenham Hotspur) has finally embraced a trophy on the European stage, but his future remains uncertain.
Tottenham won the UEFA Europa League final against Manchester United on the 22nd (Korean time) of the 2024-2025 season. As the captain, Son was the first to lift the trophy after the match, marking a symbolic record as he became only the third captain in Tottenham's history to hoist a European competition trophy. Tottenham officially declared Son a "True Legend."
Although the word "Legend" is attached next to his name, reality does not sustain itself on emotions alone. Son signed a mid-term contract with Tottenham until June 2026 in 2021. On the surface, it appears to be a stable contract, but local media view it as a "practical safeguard" or a "strategic extension." The Guardian noted, "Tottenham had significant intent behind this contract to defend Son's market value," while SpursWeb provided a realistic analysis stating, "Considering the current performance alone, it would be hard to discuss a new contract based solely on respect."
Injuries have also hindered him. Son was sidelined for about two and a half months due to injury this season. As a consequence, he managed only 7 goals and 9 assists in the league, and his overall tally across all competitions stood at 11 goals and 12 assists. This season marked the first time since joining Tottenham that he failed to score double-digit goals in the Premier League.
However, from the club's perspective, complicated calculations come into play. Son is the highest-paid player at Tottenham. His annual salary of approximately 18 billion won poses a significant burden given the current financial situation of the club. Especially in a situation where financial deficits and the restructuring of the squad are underway, pursuing a contract renewal without adjustments to the salary structure is viewed as practically difficult. Consequently, some local media suggest that "this summer is indeed the last opportunity to sell Son and maximize profits."
In fact, there have been considerable offers for Son. Several clubs from the Middle East, including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Turkey, have shown interest in Son, with reports indicating that offers of up to 50 million pounds (926 billion won) have been made. Spurs HQ analyzed, "Son's transfer is not just a simple loss of talent. Through him, Tottenham can achieve two goals: acquiring young resources and stabilizing the club's finances."
On the other hand, the club's official stance appears to be somewhat different. Tottenham secured 5th place in the league this season, successfully returning to the UEFA Champions League, and has positioned Son as a key player for the upcoming season.
According to SpursWeb, Tottenham has reportedly decided not to consider any transfer offers for Son. Additionally, there are plans for a tour in Korea this summer, making Son's presence more than just a tactical asset. He is the center of Tottenham's marketing, symbolism, and brand.
Although Son was not included in the starting lineup for the Europa League final, he dedicated himself to defense and pressing after being substituted in the second half, helping maintain the team's lead until the end. When he lifted the trophy as captain for the first time, fans confirmed "Son Heung-min's sincerity" in that moment.
Football Insider evaluated, "His performance was not at the peak of his career, but he remains the team's leader and spiritual pillar."
British media predict that Son and the club will enter final contract negotiations around December this year. This meeting is expected to involve realistic adjustments regarding salary modifications, contract extensions, and guarantees as a starter.
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