Son Heung-min has spent a decade at Tottenham, finally winning his first trophy last month, but has been linked with a departure as his contract nears its end.
The South Korean international is captain at the club, and has been one of the most important players at the north London outfit, particularly during their more successful periods.
His partnership with Harry Kane saw the two combine for goals more often than any other duo in the league’s history, but with the England captain’s exit his own influence had begun to wane.
Now, reports from The Sun suggest that Son would be open to the idea of leaving Tottenham at long last on a high, having just sealed Europa League victory.
It would represent a rare opportunity to leave the club having added silverware to the trophy cabinet – something not even Kane managed – but at 32, and turning 33 in less than a month, his options are perhaps slimmer than those of his former team-mate.
His formerly prodigious pace has shortened up a touch, while he would appear to have lost his golden touch in front of goal.
Son Heung-min at last got his hands on some silverware for Tottenham after a decade
The South Korea international has been linked with a move away with one year left on his deal
He became the first Tottenham captain in 17 years to lift a trophy with the Europa League
Son managed only 11 goals in all competitions for 2024-25, his lowest tally since his first season at the club, though he did provide 12 assists.
Speaking after his country’s 4-0 win over Kuwait, he remained coy when asked about his immediate future, rather than ruling out any departure.
‘I still have one more year left on the contract,’ he said.
‘Rather than saying anything at this moment, I think we should all wait and see what happens.
‘But no matter where I end up, I will always do the best I can. It will never change.’
It would be a bitter blow for Tottenham to lose their captain should he decide to leave the club, especially in such a crucial summer.
After finishing 17th in the Premier League, Ange Postecoglou was sacked after winning the Europa League and securing a Champions League return for Spurs.
Brentford boss Thomas Frank is widely expected to take over in north London, and faces a massive rebuild if he is to help Tottenham to be competitive in Europe after such a dismal showing last term.
Ange Postecoglou was sacked after the club could only finish in 17th place in the top-flight
Reports have claimed that Son is open to the idea of leaving the club on a high this summer
Yet for Son, this disappointing season will still live long in the memory for the silverware it brought the club at long last.
‘I think I’ve accomplished everything I’ve done while playing the football I wanted to.
‘Football is about winning and only winners are remembered. Despite the difficult season, it was a really happy season for me because I experienced the trophy that I’ve been chasing since I was young.
‘It was a year where I wanted to do better. I was so happy to be able to share that moment with so many people who cheered me on.
‘I haven’t been in good condition many times, but I think I’ll be able to prepare for the new season in really good condition.
