Thomas Frank Ready to Sanction Sale of £22m Spurs Star He Once Praised as ‘Fantastic’ – Son Heung-min Era Nears Its End
Tottenham Hotspur could be heading for a seismic summer shake-up, with club captain and modern legend Son Heung-min potentially on his way out of North London. According to information obtained by TBR Football, newly appointed Spurs boss Thomas Frank has signaled his willingness to let the 32-year-old forward leave if the player also expresses a desire for a fresh challenge elsewhere.
This revelation follows earlier reports that a meeting between Frank and Son is expected in the coming weeks, during which the South Korean star’s future will be formally discussed. However, behind the scenes, Frank appears to have already made a decision. Sources indicate that the Danish coach—who only recently took charge at Tottenham—has accepted the possibility of moving on from one of Spurs’ most iconic figures.
Son Accepts His Spurs Chapter Is Winding Down
TBR’s chief correspondent Graeme Bailey has reported that the momentum is building towards an emotional farewell. Son, who joined Tottenham in 2015 from Bayer Leverkusen for £22 million, is believed to have accepted that his time at the club may be coming to a natural close.
While the forward remains “welcome” to stay should he choose to see out the final year of his contract, the likelihood is that he would play a reduced role under Frank, potentially spending significant spells on the bench. That reduced involvement has led to speculation that Son himself may prefer to seek a more active role elsewhere as he enters the twilight of his career.
A Glorious Note to End On?
If Son does move on this summer, he would be departing on a high. The 2024/25 season saw him become the first Spurs captain to lift a major trophy since Ledley King in 2008, cementing his legendary status at the club. For a player whose career in North London has been defined by loyalty, flair, and consistency, such a moment would serve as a fitting end to a glorious chapter.
Spurs Already Planning for Life Without Son
Tottenham’s transfer activity suggests the club is preparing for the post-Son era. The Lilywhites have already completed the permanent signing of Mathys Tel from Bayern Munich in a £30 million deal, and they continue to explore additional options to refresh their attack.
Among the names being considered are Antoine Semenyo of Bournemouth, although his reported price tag in excess of £60 million is proving to be a significant stumbling block. Spurs have also been long-time admirers of Eberechi Eze from Crystal Palace and Bryan Mbeumo of Brentford—both players with the technical ability and versatility to slot into Frank’s dynamic attacking style.
Frank’s Past Praise for Son Shows How Far the Tide Has Turned
Just two years ago, in August 2023, Thomas Frank publicly praised Son while preparing Brentford to face Tottenham. In a press conference, Frank described the Spurs attack as “very, very strong,” singling out the quartet of Richarlison, Maddison, Son, and Kulusevski as top-quality talents.
> “It’s a good team we’re playing against with some fantastic players in it,” Frank said at the time. “I think we all agree Richarlison, Maddison, Son and Kulusevski is a very, very strong forward line.”
That appreciation hasn’t necessarily diminished, but circumstances have changed. Over the past season, Son’s form and physical sharpness have shown signs of waning. His influence has declined, and with the team needing to evolve, Frank appears ready to make bold decisions—even if it means letting go of a club icon.
Daniel Levy’s Valuation Points to Commercial Considerations
Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy is reportedly placing a £50 million valuation on Son—an amount that may raise eyebrows considering the player’s age. However, that valuation isn’t based purely on on-field contributions. Son remains a massive commercial asset to the club, especially in Asia, where his popularity continues to generate substantial revenue through merchandise sales, sponsorships, and broadcasting partnerships.
Despite this, Tottenham may be open to negotiating a lower fee if Son expresses a clear desire to leave, particularly if they can redirect those funds toward strengthening the squad with younger, longer-term investments.
What’s Next for Son and Spurs?
While no final decision has been made, all indications suggest that Tottenham and Son are heading toward a respectful parting of ways. The discussions between Son and Frank in the coming weeks will likely determine the next chapter of his career.
Whether it’s a final challenge in Europe, a move to the Middle East or MLS, or even a return to Asia, Son’s next destination will surely be of major interest across the footballing world. Regardless of where he goes, his legacy at Tottenham is secure—321 appearances, 160 goals, countless moments of brilliance, and a place in the hearts of Spurs fans forever.
As Thomas Frank begins reshaping Tottenham in his image, it seems one of the first major calls of his reign will involve bidding farewell to a club legend.