Son Heung-min (33, Tottenham)'s transfer rumors are becoming more concrete. In the UK, the message 'It's time to leave now' is being communicated openly, and candidates for his replacement are immediately being mentioned, clearly indicating a generational shift.
The UK 'Evening Standard' reported on the 12th (Korean time) that 'the acquisition of Mohammed Kudus by Tottenham Hotspur poses significant implications for Son Heung-min's future' and 'if he leaves now, no one will blame Son Heung-min.' The Standard assessed that 'now, with the legendary finale of winning the Europa League, if Son Heung-min leaves the team, it would be a perfect conclusion.'
Son Heung-min led Tottenham to its first European competition trophy in 41 years, defeating Manchester United in the Europa League final for the 2024-2025 season. After the match, he left a meaningful message saying, 'Can I be called a legend just for today?'
In the meantime, Tottenham has acquired Mohammed Kudus from West Ham. This significant acquisition, costing £55 million (approximately 1.02 trillion won), is seen as more than just a reinforcement; analysts suggest it is a declaration of 'generational change.' Kudus is a versatile player who can cover not only his main position on the right but also the left side and the central area, which could directly lead to a decrease in Son Heung-min's standing.
The justification for the transfer did not stop here. On the 13th, the football media 'TBR Football' reported that 'a successor to Son Heung-min has emerged.' The media analyzed three alternative candidates for Tottenham, as they faced difficulties in acquiring Morgan Gibbs-White. The first individual mentioned among them was Netherlands national player Xavi Simons.
TBR Football commented that 'Simons is an ideal replacement for Son Heung-min, capable of playing both left-wing and attacking midfield roles,' adding that 'he fits well with the tactics of manager Thomas Frank.' They also mentioned specific names such as Morgan Rogers (Aston Villa) and Eberechi Eze (Crystal Palace).
The media indicated that 'Tottenham has begun reviewing these three players in case the transfer of Gibbs-White falls through,' suggesting that plans to secure a resource to fill Son Heung-min's gap are already in the conceptual stage.
Meanwhile, Son Heung-min remains a symbolic figure for the team. He wears the captain's armband and is central to the club from a marketing perspective, including the Asian tour. Among a young squad with little European competition experience, his record of 16 goals in the Champions League holds value beyond mere memories.
The realistic variables such as age, contract expiration date (June 2026), and decline in scoring ability within the league are clear. The last sentence reported by the Evening Standard is significant. The media wrote, 'If he leaves, no one will blame him anymore. Everyone will understand. That is where Son Heung-min's career has reached.'
It remains uncertain whether the new season for Tottenham will begin with Son Heung-min. However, the message from local media is clear: 'It's time to let go now.'
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