The Hard Tackle lists three candidates Tottenham Hotspur should consider to replace Son Heung-min after the club captain announced his impending departure.
Tottenham Hotspur fans are still coming to grips with the shocking news that iconic forward and club captain Son Heung-min has officially announced his departure following an illustrious spell in North London. The statement, delivered during a press conference in South Korea, confirmed long-circulating rumours. As supporters digest the upcoming emotional farewell, the question on everyone’s lips is: Who will fill the void the South Korean attacker will soon leave?
Since joining Tottenham from Bayer Leverkusen in 2015, Son has been nothing short of sensational. Renowned for his pace, finishing ability, and versatility, the 33-year-old took no time to become a fixture in the starting eleven. The past decade has seen him deliver countless memorable moments, from dazzling solo goals to heroic performances in decisive matches, cementing his place as one of the Premier League’s most revered attackers.
Son’s impact was not limited to the pitch. His infectious smile, relentless work rate, and humble attitude made him a fan favourite and a role model worldwide. When his iconic Tottenham career ends, he will have racked up more than 150 goals and over 100 assists, winning several individual accolades and giving them the parting gift of the UEFA Europa trophy. In addition, Son’s partnership with Harry Kane will stand the test of time in the Premier League.
However, speculation around Son’s future has intensified in the last few weeks, with strong links with MLS club LAFC. Widespread reports have suggested that the California-based club’s ambitious offer has tempted Son to opt for a new challenge in the US as he enters the next chapter of his illustrious career.
With Son Heung-min embarking on a new adventure, Tottenham’s attention must now turn to recruiting a worthy successor. Replacing a player of his calibre will not be easy, but several exciting possibilities have already surfaced in the rumour mill. Here are three potential candidates who could fill the boots of the departing Spurs legend.
Rodrygo Goes
We start with a player who has seen links with Tottenham Hotspur in the last few weeks after the Lilywhites began their search for a Son Heung-min replacement. However, the North London club may face stiff competition from Arsenal and Chelsea for his signature. We are talking about Real Madrid attacker Rodrygo Goes.
The Brazilian international is at a crossroads in his career after Xabi Alonso used him sparingly at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup. That has created a situation where several high-profile clubs are keen on signing him in the summer transfer window. It also begs the question: if given the centre stage, can Rodrygo become one of the best players in the world?
Widespread reports have linked Rodrygo with Tottenham Hotspur, and he may be the ideal target for the North London club due to his close resemblance to Son’s playing style. Thomas Frank appreciates versatility in his attacking players, and the Real Madrid attacker has the quality to endear himself to the Tottenham fans.
Rodrygo can play across the frontline, and that has made him an asset for Real Madrid while being his bane. While the Real Madrid attacker’s output can and should improve, he has the potential to make it happen. However, with Arsenal and Chelsea also interested, the battle for his signature may stretch for several weeks.
Rafael Leao
From a highly sought-after attacker to a player who has seen his stock drop in the last couple of years, we move on to the next candidate on our list. We are talking about Rafael Leao, who has been a talismanic attacker for AC Milan in the last few seasons.
However, the Portuguese international endured an underwhelming 2024/25 campaign, which has reduced his value and suitors in the market heading into the summer transfer window. Nevertheless, Leao remains reasonably sought-after, with recent reports linking him with Bayern Munich and Manchester United. However, it will be surprising to see those clubs launch a bid to secure his services.
So, Tottenham may have a free run at Leao, and while the AC Milan winger is not as versatile as Son Heung-min and Rodrygo, his directness should entice Thomas Frank and suit his system. While the 26-year-old will likely cost a sizeable fee, the Lilywhites may have funds to play with after freeing up Son’s wages. So, a summer move may see the light of day if he becomes the top target for Tottenham.
While Leao has blown hot and cold in the last two seasons, his blistering pace down the left flank causes all sorts of problems for opposition defenders in the Premier League. In addition, it is scary to think where AC Milan may have been without Leao’s influence, making him an appealing option. In addition, at 26 years old, the Portuguese attacker’s best years are ahead of him, and he is only going to continue getting better.
Malick Fofana
Our list culminates with a young player who, like Son Heung-min, can potentially serve Tottenham Hotspur for nearly a decade, if not longer. However, like Rodrygo, this player is sought-after in the market, drawing interest from Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool, among others. We are talking about Malick Fofana.
While the Belgian winger is still raw and rough around the edges, he has showcased his potential during his time with Lyon. Fofana likes holding on to the ball, and his pacy outlet often leaves defenders backpedalling, making him an annoyance for the opponents.
However, the 20-year-old winger’s rawness means he must develop many facets of his game. Working under Thomas Frank may help him fix some issues, including a lack of defensive contribution, something Son Heung-min has been revered for during his illustrious spell with Tottenham.
With Everton hitting a stumbling block in the bid to sign Fofana, Tottenham Hotspur will have a window of opportunity to land the highly-rated winger, who has been pining to join a club that can offer UEFA Champions League football. More importantly, Lyon may readily accept a cost-effective bid to sell the 20-year-old Belgian winger, as they are not out of the woods yet despite avoiding relegation from Ligue 1.