The football world is abuzz with speculation as Tottenham Hotspur star Son Heung-min has reportedly asked to leave the club, with Major League Soccer side Los Angeles FC emerging as a strong suitor. This potential departure marks a significant turning point for both the iconic South Korean forward and the North London club he has served with distinction for nearly a decade.
Son’s desire for a new challenge comes after a remarkable season where he led the Lilywhites to their first piece of silverware in 17 years, capping a period of immense personal and team success. His request, conveyed to the club and new manager Thomas Frank earlier this summer, indicates a clear intent to explore opportunities beyond the Premier League.
Currently, with Tottenham Hotspur on their pre-season tour of East Asia, the focus is squarely on their upcoming friendly against Newcastle United at the 66,000-capacity Seoul World Cup Stadium. This highly anticipated match in Son’s home country could, ironically, serve as his final appearance for the club, adding a layer of poignant anticipation for fans worldwide.
While Los Angeles FC has shown considerable interest in securing the services of the 33-year-old, offering a fresh start in the MLS, clubs from the Saudi Pro League are also reportedly in the fray, prepared to table more lucrative financial packages. Despite these competing offers, Son’s preference for a move to LAFC highlights his personal aspirations for the next chapter of his illustrious career.
Tottenham’s hierarchy, acknowledging Son’s immense contributions over his ten years, aims to facilitate his exit as smoothly as possible. Since joining from Bayer Leverkusen in August 2015, Son has been a prolific scorer, netting 173 goals in over 450 appearances. His appointment as captain by former head coach Ange Postecoglou in 2023 underscored his leadership, culminating in the Europa League final victory against Manchester United.
New head coach Thomas Frank, who succeeded Postecoglou in June, addressed the sensitive situation in his inaugural press conference, stating the club ultimately holds the decision. While acknowledging the complexities of a long-serving player’s desire to move, Frank affirmed Son’s commitment in training, emphasizing the professional conduct maintained amidst the ongoing discussions.
Son’s potential departure represents a bittersweet moment for Tottenham Hotspur fans, especially given the significant changes already sweeping through the club this summer, including Postecoglou’s exit. His devastating partnership with Harry Kane defined an era, and their roles as figureheads during Mauricio Pochettino’s time, including a Premier League title challenge and the 2019 Champions League final, solidified his legendary status.
Although his solo lap of honor after the season’s final game against Brighton & Hove Albion now appears to be a farewell, this transfer saga might offer a silver lining for Frank. With Son’s output notably declining, having scored only seven league goals in the 2024-25 campaign, his exit would free the new manager from a difficult decision regarding the captaincy and allow him to prioritize the development of promising young talents like Mathys Tel and Wilson Odobert.
