Son Heung-min’s potential Tottenham exit could cause some complications for Daniel Levy.
After almost a decade in North London, Son could leave Tottenham this summer after finally winning a trophy with the Lilywhites as the 32-year-old lifted the UEFA Europa League.
Tottenham News understands that there is a 50 per cent chance that Son leaves this summer. However, it seems his departure might not be so straightforward.
Son is contractually obliged to feature in South Korea friendly
As reported by The Times (17 June), Son is contractually obligated to play in a pre-season friendly for Tottenham against Newcastle (3 August).
Tottenham are participants in the Coupang Play Series and will play against the Magpies at the Seoul World Cup Stadium in South Korea.
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As a result, while Tottenham are considering selling Son, it has been reported that any exit is highly unlikely to come before the clash with Eddie Howe’s side.
However, Lilywhite Rose owner John Wenham – speaking exclusively to Tottenham News – believes that Spurs could simply pay a fine if Son does not participate in the fixture against Newcastle.
“Son has been linked to a few different clubs,” Wenham said.
“If he goes to Saudi, it could be a fee of £50-60m perhaps, anywhere else, probably around the £30m mark. However, if the right move opens up, I’m sure if there’s a penalty for him not playing in the South Korea friendly, Tottenham will just pay it and do the deal.
“It could be a fine of £2m, whatever it is, if Tottenham get a good offer for Son that suits all parties, and there is a fine to break that contractual agreement, I’m sure they’ll just encompass that cost in the fee they receive for selling Son.”
Son could be a good rotational option
While Tottenham could collect a decent fee for Son if he leaves this summer, the South Korea international could still be useful next year.
The Lilywhites could play in well over 50 games next season if they go far in the UEFA Champions League. As a result, squad depth will be vital.
Not only does Son have experience in Europe, but he is still a very good rotational option despite his age. Therefore, it may benefit Spurs to keep their captain for one final season.