Tottenham Hotspur are allegedly open to parting ways with captain Son Heung-min this summer, but any decision on his future will not be made until after the club’s impending pre-season tour of Asia, according to the Mirror.
The South Korean forward has emerged as a possible transfer target for Major League Soccer club Los Angeles FC. LAFC is reportedly considering a summer move to bring in Son as a marquee signing to increase their global brand, particularly in the rich Asian market.
Spurs, despite still valuing Son both on and off the pitch, are said to be open to offers ranging from £15 million to £20 million. However, any move would depend on Son’s willingness to leave North London and join the MLS.
Asia Tour Holds the Key
Tottenham’s decision-making schedule is tightly related to the club’s upcoming Asian trip, which is a crucial commercial and fan engagement drive. The club is scheduled to travel to Seoul for a high-profile friendly against Newcastle United on August 3, as well as a pre-season match against Arsenal in Hong Kong.
Son’s participation is seen as critical to the success of this tour. As the largest Asian football player of his generation, his fame extends across the continent, particularly in South Korea, driving substantial spectator attendance, sponsorship interest, and memorabilia sales.
According to The Mirror, if Son does not accompany the squad on the tour, Spurs risk losing up to 75% of their commercial revenue. Even if he makes the trip but does not play, the club is expected to lose around half of its revenue.
A Delicate Balance
Tottenham’s situation is a difficult balancing act. Son is still one of their most iconic and commercially important players, but at 32, a large offer from abroad could be financially viable. At the same time, losing him before or during the Asia tour would be a major setback for the club’s image and bottom line in one of its most crucial global markets.
As it stands, no final decision will be made until the tour is completed. Son’s destiny, whether he continues in North London or starts a new chapter in the United States, remains uncertain. However, one thing is certain: any move must be handled with caution, both for football reasons and business ramifications.
