O'Hara asserted in an interview with FourFourTwo on the 21st (Korean time) that "he has now reached a stage where it is difficult to keep up with the pace of the Premier League."

He added, "The sharpness with which he used to tear through and break past opposing defenses has disappeared. He might attempt to switch positions like Ryan Giggs, but it is questionable whether Son can adapt to that style now."

O'Hara, a former Tottenham youth player who had some first-team experience, did not leave a significant mark in his subsequent career as he moved through lower leagues. In contrast, Son has established himself as a symbolic figure at Tottenham, recording a total of 160 goals for the club. However, O'Hara evaluated that "his prime has now passed."

In the 2024-2025 season, Son recorded 11 goals and 12 assists in official matches. In the Premier League, he achieved 7 goals and 10 assists, marking the first season since his debut in 2015 where he failed to reach double digits in league goals. Notably, he came on as a substitute in the Europa League final and played the second half, but his previous explosive presence was not evident.

O'Hara pointed out this moment, saying, "In the final, he could no longer create decisive moments. Even considering the effects of his injuries, his performance was clearly diminished."

Despite this, he highly valued Son's contributions to Tottenham. He emphasized, "He is a symbol of Asian football, and he played a critical role in Tottenham's growth as a global brand. It is simply time to consider a new direction." In response to a question regarding the possibility of a transfer, he firmly stated, "It is absolutely necessary."

Son's contract runs until June 2026, but he will acquire free agent (FA) status next summer. This means it is the last summer for Tottenham to receive a transfer fee. Local analysts indicate that the possibility of a squad overhaul including Son is gradually becoming a reality.

With the newly appointed Thomas Frank as manager indicating player rebuilding, there are also speculations that Son could be excluded from tactical plans. Frank has a history of building teams around young resources during his time at Brentford, which could directly affect Son's standing.

The BBC noted that Son's Asia tour schedule could be a significant variable in his future. He must participate in friendlies against Arsenal in Hong Kong on July 31 and Newcastle in Seoul on August 3 due to contractual obligations. Reports indicate that serious transfer discussions can only take place after this schedule.

The Times reported, "Son is expected to engage in various commercial activities during this tour, including advertising shoots, sponsorship events, and fan meetings, which constitutes a strategic revenue structure for Tottenham." Internally, the club maintains the principle that discussions about Son's transfer must not involve commercial losses.

In fact, there is a sensing of mood regarding Son's transfer within Tottenham. 'Tottenham Hotspur News' reported that chairman Daniel Levy is not ruling out the sale of Son. This is interpreted as the club aiming to achieve financial balance while also reforming the team.

실제 토트넘 내부에서는 손흥민의 이적에 대한 분위기가 감지되고 있다. ‘토트넘홋스퍼뉴스’는 다니엘 레비 회장이 손흥민 매각을 배제하지 않고 있다고 보도했다. 이는 구단이 팀 개편과 동시에 재정적 균형을 맞추려는 포석으로 해석된다.

[OSEN]