Thomas Frank, the new head coach at Spurs, was unable to guarantee Son’s long-term position at the club when he spoke to the media on Friday.

The club is keeping its cards close to its chest regarding the likelihood of a departure.

However, sources suggest that Tottenham is hesitant to commit to retaining him beyond their pre-season tour. This could potentially be a farewell tour.

Despite his legendary status in North London and immense popularity in Asia, the player seems to lack clarity on what lies ahead.

Son, 33, is set to play a crucial role in the club’s upcoming tour, with matches against Arsenal in Hong Kong on July 31 and Newcastle in Seoul three days later.

His presence in the squad is vital from a commercial perspective, especially considering the importance of the trip in promoting Tottenham’s brand. With his image heavily associated with promotional materials and ticket sales, excluding him from the tour would jeopardize the club’s relationship with tour organizers.

Yet behind the scenes, discussions have occurred, and it is understood that the club has indicated to Son that they would not obstruct him should a suitable offer arise.

The player is not actively seeking a transfer, but Tottenham is open to negotiations if the terms are favorable, as they contemplate the opportunity to capitalize while they can. Son has 12 months left on his current contract, and this will be the last window in which they can secure a substantial fee for him.

Tottenham is not actively forcing Son out, but they recognize that the club has already experienced the peak years of his career.

With an eye on the future, they have already made decisive moves in the market, finalizing a permanent deal for Bayern Munich’s Mathys Tel and acquiring Mohammed Kudus from West Ham. They are also pursuing additional attacking options, such as Yoane Wissa from Brentford.

Son is no longer considered central to Tottenham’s strategy. While he remains part of the squad and is expected to participate in this weekend’s friendly against Reading, he is available for transfer and has multiple interested parties.

Three Saudi Arabian clubs - Al-Ahli, Al-Nassr and Al-Qadsiah - have expressed a willingness to pay over £30 million to bring Son to the Middle East. Interest from Major League Soccer has also emerged, with LAFC linked earlier in the summer. His former manager Jose Mourinho would be eager to bring him to Fenerbahce.

Son will travel with the team to Asia, but what follows is far from certain. For a player who has provided Spurs with countless memorable moments, this trip could signify the conclusion of an era.