Spurs icon could depart with Saudi Pro League pushing for deal | OneFootball

Heung-min Son Faces Crucial Summer as Saudi Interest Reignites Uncertainty

Unresolved Future for Club Captain Amid Lucrative Proposals

Tottenham Hotspur captain Heung-min Son is expected to hold pivotal discussions over his future with the club during pre-season, according to a report from TalkSport. While Spurs triggered an extension clause in Son’s contract, the move is believed to be more about safeguarding value than securing long-term commitment.

Photo: IMAGO

Saudi Pro League clubs Al Ahli, Al Nassr and Al Qadsiah have reignited their interest in the South Korean forward. The trio are reportedly prepared to offer around €40 million (£34 million) to Tottenham, while Son himself would be in line for a contract worth €30 million (£25.6 million) per season.

This comes at a time when Son, 32, remains under contract and is preparing for a high-profile pre-season tour with Spurs in South Korea, including a fixture against Newcastle United on 3 August in the Coupang Play Series. He is contractually obliged to appear in that match, potentially complicating any immediate transfer negotiations.

Saudi Project Targets Global Pull Through Son

The Saudi interest is strategic. Al Ahli are searching for a marquee name to bolster their title-winning squad and elevate global interest in the Pro League. Executives behind the Saudi football expansion see Son as a commercial asset as much as a footballer. It is understood that his arrival could catalyse a lucrative TV rights deal with a South Korean broadcaster, enhancing both the league’s visibility and its economic footprint.

While the player previously dismissed overtures from Saudi clubs in 2023 and 2024, the financial scale and project vision this summer appear far more persuasive. As one source close to the negotiations suggested, “this summer’s offer is different, more thought-through, with bigger ambitions and off-pitch plans.”

Other Options Still on Table for Son

MLS sides and Turkish clubs have expressed interest, and there was internal discussion at Bayer Leverkusen about a possible return earlier this year. However, Leverkusen are yet to make any formal approach and are understood to be prioritising other targets.

What complicates the situation further is Spurs’ ongoing recruitment in Son’s position. Despite signing Mathys Tel permanently from Bayern, the club continues to explore other left-sided attackers. Should another arrival occur, it may impact Son’s playing time under new head coach Thomas Frank.

Photo IMAGO

Talks between Frank and Son are expected ahead of the Korea tour. While Spurs are not actively looking to sell, the reality is that Son holds the power. Whether he chooses to run down his contract, reassess in January, or pursue an immediate exit will be guided by his conversations with Frank and clarity over his squad role.

End of an Era or One More Chapter?

Son’s contribution to Tottenham over the past decade is immense: 454 appearances, 173 goals, countless moments of inspiration and, most recently, a Europa League triumph in Bilbao. He remains one of the most respected figures at the club and has never agitated for a move.

Photo IMAGO

Spurs have yet to receive any formal bids, and all indications suggest that even if one arrives, they will not pressure their captain to leave. This summer, therefore, hinges on Son’s own ambitions — sporting, financial, and personal.

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For Spurs fans, this moment will feel like standing at a crossroads with one of the club’s true icons.

Son’s loyalty, leadership and on-pitch brilliance have been central to Tottenham’s identity for nearly a decade. Seeing him lift a European trophy in Bilbao was not just a victory for the team, but a crowning moment for a player who has given everything.

That said, football is shifting. The Saudi Pro League is offering top-tier money, a clear sporting project and global ambitions. For a 32-year-old forward nearing the twilight of his prime, it is understandable that Son might consider it more seriously this time.

Under Thomas Frank, with Tel already on board and more signings possible, Son could enjoy a revitalised role in a new system. The respect between player and club means this will be his decision, not one forced by financial pressure or tactical changes.

Whatever he chooses, fans will back him. But there is a sense of expectancy too. One final chapter at Spurs under a new manager? That feels like unfinished business worth exploring.