Son Heung-min’s future at Tottenham has been a huge talking point this summer.
Son has one year remaining on his deal with Tottenham, and there has been plenty of speculation over his future following links with Saudi Arabia and a reunion with Jose Mourinho.
The 32-year-old is widely reported to be more open to a move than ever before after finally winning a trophy with Tottenham.
However, it seems as though an exit won’t be straightforward after a recent contractual reveal.
Son is contractually obliged to feature in South Korea friendly
Thomas Frank made it clear in his first interview that part of his new role will be to maximise not only the potential of the young players, but also focus on the experienced members of the Tottenham squad.
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The Dane could look to keep hold of his captain, but he would first have to convince Levy, who is open to selling Son, but only after the contractual agreement for the South Korean to play in his home country in a pre-season friendly against Newcastle (3 August) is fulfilled [The Times].
The Lilywhites are participating in the Coupang Play Series, with their fixture against the Magpies set to be played at the Seoul World Cup Stadium.
The global status and value that Son commands will make the decision on his future much more complicated for Levy, who has seen firsthand the monetary value the winger brings to Tottenham.
And ex-Spurs scout Bryan King – speaking exclusively to Tottenham News – believes that this friendly could be worth more than £1million to Tottenham, mainly due to Son’s presence.
“A lot of the writing about Son has been premature,” King said.
“He hasn’t publicly stated that he wants to leave. However, if he is contractually obliged to feature in Spurs’ pre-season tour of Asia, then this needs to be honoured.
“Son will add plenty of intrigue to Spurs’ match with Newcastle in South Korea. Everyone will be coming to watch the game for him, I’m sure.
“Tottenham are going to make big money from this friendly thanks to Son. They will earn well over £1million from this match.”
Frank’s opinion of Son is arguably the most important
While Son deserves the respect to decide on his future, and Levy will understandably have the final say, it is ultimately a decision that should lie with Frank.
It will be the Dane who will choose the team every week, and work closely with the squad and the player, should he stay.
Should the 51-year-old decide that Son is surplus to requirements or that he can return him to his best and would benefit from the forward’s presence and experience, then his opinion should be honoured.