Son Heung-min (33, Tottenham Hotspur), who represented the Premier League, is now the subject of a harsh analysis stating that he remains a "brand asset." In a situation where marketing value is highlighted over performance, Son's transfer is regarded by the club as a realistic revenue generation opportunity.

Tottenham legend Chris Waddle stated about Son Heung-min, "Now we have to accept reality." On the 28th (Korean time), through SpursWeb, he expressed, "Son Heung-min was a great player and earned the respect of many. However, in a physically demanding league like the Premier League, every player has an expiration date."

He added, "In leagues like France, Germany, Italy, and Spain, he might still have another two years left, but the Premier League is different. It is an overwhelming stage for the current Son Heung-min."

The changed atmosphere within Tottenham also makes Son Heung-min's position more unstable. Newly appointed manager Thomas Frank mentioned key players for the upcoming season, including Dominic Solanke, James Maddison, and Rodrigo Bentancur, but notably left out captain Son Heung-min.

Local media reported that "Son Heung-min has effectively been excluded from the starting lineup," and speculation suggests that even if he stays, he would only serve as a rotation player. Waddle also commented, "Last season, Son Heung-min's movements were no longer at the Premier League level," emphasizing that both the player and the club need to make a rational decision.

In fact, Son Heung-min recorded 11 goals and 11 assists over 46 matches during the 2024-2025 season, but compared to previous seasons, he showed a decline in key attacking metrics such as dribble success rate, shooting accuracy, and sprint metrics. There is also analysis suggesting that his physical stamina and speed degradation are gradually becoming apparent.

With transfer rumors adding to the atmosphere, it is rapidly changing. TalkSport reported that several clubs from Saudi Arabia, including Al Ahli, Al Nassr, and Al Qadsiah, have shown interest in Son Heung-min and are preparing a transfer fee of €40 million (63 billion won).

Waddle commented on this point, saying, "This is Tottenham's last opportunity to gain revenue." Several commentators from BBC and ESPN also assessed that "Son Heung-min is now closer to a brand targeting global marketing rather than a superstar in his prime," indicating that a transfer could be more aligned with commercial strategy than performance.

In fact, Tottenham is focusing on commercially leveraging Son Heung-min. He remains a key figure in the upcoming Asian tour. Until the match against Newcastle on Aug. 3 in Seoul, Son Heung-min is expected to be at the center of various events, fan meetings, and media activities, and accordingly, the announcement of his transfer is likely to be postponed until after the conclusion of the Asian tour.

However, there are still perspectives wishing for Son Heung-min to remain. Matthew Abbott from Football London said, "If Son Heung-min stays with Tottenham next season, the club will gain greater value than the transfer fee," and added, "If he regains his form starting this summer, the possibility of a contract renewal cannot be ruled out."

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