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Spurs To confirm Son Heung-Min Exit
- Jul 28, 2018; Pasadena, CA, USA; Tottenham Hotspur forward Son Heung-Min against FC Barcelona during an International Champions Cup soccer match at Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

After nearly a decade of loyalty, brilliance, and unforgettable moments, Tottenham Hotspur might be preparing to say goodbye to their captain and icon, Son Heung-min. While it might sound unthinkable to many Spurs fans, reports out of England suggest that the club seriously considers parting ways with the South Korean superstar, not because of his performance, but as a strategic move to reshape the team.

Since arriving in North London in 2015, Son has been a model professional, on and off the pitch. With 173 goals in 454 appearances across all competitions, he has become one of the club’s all-time greats. Only four players in Spurs history have scored more goals than Son, and only six have featured in more matches.

A Decade Of Devotion and the First Taste Of Silverware

The Telegraph broke the story on June 4, claiming Spurs may cash in on Son this summer to help fund a much-needed squad revamp. According to the outlet, “this is the last opportunity to generate transfer fees through a sale, so the club is expected to be in a dilemma.”

This past season was a mixed bag for the 32-year-old. On paper, it was his least prolific league campaign since his debut year in England with just seven goals in 30 Premier League matches. But numbers don’t always tell the whole story. Son was still highly effective, contributing 11 goals and 12 assists in 46 appearances across all competitions. More importantly, he finally lifted silverware with the club, leading Spurs to a historic UEFA Europa League title in the 2024-25 season. Their first major trophy in 17 years.

Saudi Arabia Circles Once Again

The idea of Son leaving Tottenham isn’t entirely new. Interest from Saudi Arabian clubs dates back to last summer, and that noise has only grown louder in recent weeks. According to a June 1 report from TalkSport, picked up by ESPN, several clubs from the Saudi Pro League have reignited their pursuit of the Korean international. These clubs aren’t just after Son for his footballing ability; they see him as a major marketing asset.

As one Saudi football official reportedly said, “Son Heung-min is an iconic figure in Korea. He is a suitable marketing resource for targeting the East Asian market.” The plan is simple: bring in Son to open up new markets, particularly in Asia. This strategy has already worked with Cristiano Ronaldo, who helped raise the league’s profile globally after joining Al-Nassr.

Last summer, Al-Ittihad offered a staggering $65 million transfer fee and a four-year contract worth €120 million. Son turned it down at the time, telling reporters, “I remember when (Ki) Sung-yong said, ‘The captain of the South Korean national team does not go to the Chinese league.’” He added, “There is more that I need to accomplish in the Premier League,” indicating that winning titles was still on his mind. Those personal goals may finally have been met with the Europa League title now in the bag.

Loyalty vs Logic

Tottenham triggered a one-year extension in Son’s contract in January, keeping him at the club until the summer of 2026. However, age, wages, and strategic timing all play into what appears to be a reluctant decision at the board level. Son turns 33 in July. With Champions League football back on the table and new reinforcements needed, selling their prized asset could offer a quick injection of funds. And unlike Harry Kane’s departure, which left Spurs scrambling without a clear replacement, a Son exit could be carefully planned with the player’s age and value in full consideration.

The North London side is also reportedly assessing their coaching situation. Ange Postecoglou’s future looks in doubt as, reportedly, it’s only a matter of time before they announce his departure, and there are whispers that Spurs could look for a fresh face in the dugout to match their revamped squad.

Final Thoughts

It remains to be seen whether Son accepts a Saudi offer this time. The money on the table is tempting, but for someone who has always prioritized legacy and competition over paychecks, it’s hard to predict his next move. What’s becoming clear is that the Spurs board is leaning towards a future without their long-time No. 7.

That may be difficult for fans to digest, especially considering how much he’s given to the club. From his dazzling solo goals to his humble attitude, Son has been more than just a player. He’s been the heart of Tottenham for nearly a decade. Now, with his first and possibly only trophy secured in a Spurs shirt, the curtain might be slowly coming down on one of the most beloved players in the club’s history.

This article first appeared on Total Apex Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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