Son Heung-min exit: Tottenham make new contract decision

Son Heung-min has been linked with an exit as his deal at Tottenham runs out at the end of the 2025/26 season.

His performances also have not been as good as they once were, with many fans also doubting whether or not he merits being a regular starter.

The club hierarchy have also recently backed out of contract extension talks with the South Korea international.

Daniel Levy at Tottenham
Credit: Imago

Spurs want Son to retire at the club but contract talks not leading anywhere

Despite Son’s lack of a clinical edge in the final third, Spurs are understood to be keen on keeping him.

The Times reported on 26 February that the hierarchy want the 32-year-old to retire at the club.

However, despite holding contract talks, they are unable to persuade him to sign an extension.

Stat (All comps 24/25)Son Heung-min
Apperances35
Goals10
Assists 7
xG 8.3

To persuade him to sign an extension, Spurs could emphasise his legacy as a club icon, offering a tailored role that evolves with his age, perhaps transitioning him into a mentor-like figure or a versatile substitute who still impacts games, easing the pressure to start every match.

A lucrative, incentive-based deal tied to appearances and goals, coupled with assurances of a future ambassadorial or coaching role, could appeal to his loyalty and long-term vision.

Highlighting the club’s ambitions, with investments in young talents and a push for trophies, might also reignite his hunger to stay and finish what he started, especially after his 2022 season.

Son Heung-min Tottenham
Credit: Imago

Ange Postecoglou may ask Tottenham to sign a like-for-like replacement

If persuasion fails, selling Son in the 2025 summer window could be a shrewd move.

At 32, his market value remains decent but will plummet as his contract winds down, risking a free exit in 2026.

Cashing in would provide funds to bolster the squad, potentially targeting a clinical forward with Ange Postecoglou perhaps asking for a like-for-like replacement,

Fans may balk at losing a beloved figure, but his recent lack of ruthlessness, which has been evident in his missed chances, suggests his peak may have passed.

A well-timed sale avoids sentimentality clouding strategy, ensuring Spurs remain competitive rather than clinging to a fading star, while allowing Son to pursue a fresh challenge elsewhere.