The position of captain Son Heung-min (33, Tottenham), who has devoted 10 years, is now shaken. Regardless of his desire to remain, Tottenham Hotspur seems to internally accept the reality of parting ways.
The victory in the 2024-2025 season UEFA Europa League was clearly a result of Son Heung-min's leadership. However, the club has entered a new phase. Due to poor performance in the league, head coach Ange Postecoglou has resigned, and Thomas Frank, who led Brentford, has taken over.
Son Heung-min's position under the new coaching system is uncertain. John Wenham of "Lilywhite Rose" noted, "Son Heung-min is no longer a player who can start every match," predicting that "young talents like Mathis Tel and Micky Moore are coming up, and the captaincy might also pass to Cristian Romero." This not only suggests a simple tactical change but indicates that a 'symbolic replacement' is being discussed internally at the club.
Son Heung-min himself holds a different view. "Football London" reported, "Son Heung-min wants to remain at Tottenham this summer." He feels that his 10 years of dedication were rewarded with the Europa League victory, and having achieved entry into the Champions League, he dreams of reaching greater heights with the team.
"The Sun" also reported, "Son Heung-min is expected to return to Tottenham's training ground next week to undergo a medical TES and afterward plan to have direct talks with Coach Frank." This demonstrates Son Heung-min's strong desire to remain a part of the team.
The situation is not easy. "Tottenham HQ" warned that the club's upper management could push for a transfer regardless of Son Heung-min's wishes. The media stated, "Waiting until the contract expires in 2026 and allowing a free transfer would be a significant loss for Tottenham," adding, "Daniel Levy has always made calm decisions, and Son Heung-min is no exception."
In fact, Tottenham has set Son Heung-min's transfer fee at about €90 million (approximately 144.7 billion won).
There have already been several clubs interested in signing Son Heung-min. LA FC (United States) and Fenerbahce (Turkey), as well as multiple clubs from Saudi Arabia, have entered the bidding. British publications "Mirror" and "Tottenham Hotspur News" reported, "Although Son Heung-min recently rejected an offer from LA, interest from clubs in the Saudi League remains strong."
A betting company has even emerged that predicts the possibility of a transfer in numerical terms. "Sky Bet" has set the probability that Son Heung-min's next team will be in the Saudi League at 4/9 (about 69.2%), making it the most likely scenario. This indicates that the atmosphere within the club aligns with the market trends surrounding Son Heung-min.
Tottenham has activated a one-year extension option with Son Heung-min, but this is more of a 'strategic move' than a 'guarantee of stay.' "Football Insider" reported, "Tottenham is prepared to transfer Son Heung-min if a bid of around £25 million (approximately 46.5 billion won) comes in." While respecting Son Heung-min's dedication, they are determined not to miss the last opportunity to generate revenue.
Son Heung-min is set to participate in a preseason match against Newcastle United on August 3 at Seoul World Cup Stadium. However, there is a growing prospect that this match could be his farewell.
Son Heung-min is not just a simple winger. He has been Tottenham's philosophy, emotion, and consolidation with the fans. If he leaves, it may mark the beginning of a generational shift, but it is certainly the 'end of an era.'
On the other hand, it will be a moment of opening a new era for next-generation talents like Micky Moore and Mathis Tel. Regardless of what decision Son Heung-min makes, that choice will be a critical variable for the future of Tottenham beyond his personal career.
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