Could it be a beautiful farewell?
The future of Tottenham legend Son Heung-min (33) is likely to be decided this week. The team plans to finalize his future through a pre-discussion with newly appointed coach Thomas Frank. Reports have emerged that Son Heung-min is set to meet with Coach Frank at Tottenham's training ground, Hotspur Way, ahead of the preseason.
Since joining Tottenham, Son Heung-min has grown into the club's representative icon, recording 173 goals and 101 assists in 454 official matches. In particular, last season, despite winning the UEFA Europa League, he had a less explosive performance compared to his past displays.
Criticism regarding Son Heung-min's 'aging curve' and decline in performance is rising among local media and fans. He has not recorded double-digit goals in the league this season, and there are evaluations that his influence has diminished. Former Tottenham legend Jamie O'Hara has even claimed that Son is no longer at a level suitable for the Premier League.
Nevertheless, Son Heung-min's value remains as an icon of Asian football. Three clubs in the Saudi Pro League, Al Ahli, Al Nassr, and Al Qadisiya, have expressed interest in signing Son Heung-min, preparing to offer a transfer fee of £34 million (about €40 million). The Al Ahli side is also pushing for a large-scale deal with TV broadcasting rights negotiations in mind.
Meanwhile, Major League Soccer (MLS) is emerging as an attractive option. While local conditions to play at Tottenham remain viable, there are analyses suggesting that Son Heung-min is positively considering entering MLS for market expansion and new challenges. Ultimately, it may be a solution for Son Heung-min to leave at the moment he lifts a trophy with Tottenham.
The issue is the timing of the transfer. Tottenham is bound by a contract condition that requires Son Heung-min to participate in the Asia Tour (August 3, Seoul vs. Newcastle), suggesting that a transfer can only happen after that schedule is completed. The club is showing 'legendary courtesy' by allowing him to decide his future himself, given Son Heung-min's significant commercial and symbolic value.
Coach Frank has also stated several times that he will not forcibly keep Son Heung-min. Rather, there is an atmosphere of supporting a natural and respectful decision without conflict within the club. Currently, Tottenham has only activated a one-year extension option for Son Heung-min. This indicates that this summer's transfer market may be the last chance for the club to receive a transfer fee.
However, Tottenham does not intend to force a transfer upon Son Heung-min. The basic strategy is to leave the decision to the player rather than a forced sale. If Son Heung-min decides to stay and reserve his position, he is scheduled for a transfer as a free agent in the next 2026–2027 season, which would require patience from the club.
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