Son Heung-min (33, Tottenham Hotspur)'s future transfer is likely to be decided before August 13. With less than a year remaining until the contract expires, the conclusion is expected to come only after the tour ends as it is intertwined with the club's Asia tour schedule and complicated contractual conditions.

The current summer transfer market surrounding Son Heung-min is chaotic. Although his contract remains until June 2026, Tottenham has changed its coach and is poised for a generational shift. With Ange Postecoglou being dismissed and Thomas Frank taking over, it is inevitable that Son Heung-min's position will be redefined in the new system.

Above all, both sides have not clearly stated their positions. Even Son Heung-min, who has repeatedly dismissed transfer rumors in the past and remained loyal to the team, has recently been more reserved. After finishing the Asian qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup last month, he noted, "There is a contract period left. It’s better to wait than to speak hastily. I’m also curious about my future." This reflects a largely reserved attitude.

The atmosphere at Tottenham is no different. The club respects that Son Heung-min has dedicated over 10 years to the team, and it is their position to leave the decision regarding his future transfer to him. They will not hold him back if he wishes to transfer, but concrete negotiations have not yet begun.

After taking office, Thomas Frank began reassessing the squad and is expected to meet with the captain, Son Heung-min, soon. It is reported that during this meeting, Frank will directly explain Son Heung-min's role and utilization plan.

However, the likelihood of Son Heung-min's short-term transfer is low. The biggest variable is the Asia tour. Tottenham will have a friendly match against Arsenal in Hong Kong on July 31, and on August 3, they will clash with Newcastle United at the Seoul World Cup Stadium. This period is crucial for Son Heung-min's domestic popularity.

In particular, there are analyses suggesting that the contract related to the Korea tour likely includes a clause requiring Son Heung-min to appear. It has been claimed that his attendance is explicitly stated in contracts with multiple sponsors, broadcasters, and event organizers, and that failing to comply could result in a penalty of up to £2 million (37 billion won).

Dan Plumley, a financial expert on UK football, noted, "If Son Heung-min has a contract that mandates his participation in related events, it would be understandable for Tottenham to keep him throughout the summer. The influence that Son Heung-min has both on and off the pitch is beyond imagination. This is worth more than just a simple player."

Ultimately, the direction of Son Heung-min's transfer is likely to become clearer as we approach August 13. Tottenham will play in the UEFA Super Cup in Udinese, Italy, on that day. As the Europa League champions, Tottenham is set to face UEFA Champions League titleholders Paris Saint-Germain, providing a likely stage for a match-up between Son Heung-min and Lee Kang-in.

However, both players are embroiled in transfer rumors. If Son Heung-min chooses to part ways with Tottenham, a transfer before the Super Cup seems likely, and Lee Kang-in is also facing speculation of transferring to a league outside of France due to his position at PSG. There is a growing sentiment that the possibility of the 'Korean Derby' being cancelled is gaining weight.

Meanwhile, this summer could essentially be Son Heung-min's last transfer opportunity. Earlier this year, Tottenham exercised only the one-year extension option, opting for flexible management instead of a long-term contract, which has increased the likelihood of a transfer. 'Football Insider' analyzed that "This summer is Son Heung-min's last chance for monetization," adding that "It wouldn’t be surprising even if the club does not prevent him from leaving."

[OSEN]