After a decade of dazzling North London with his clinical finishing and infectious energy, Son Heung-min has officially closed the chapter on his illustrious Tottenham Hotspur career. The South Korean forward exits as a club icon, leaving behind a legacy etched into Premier League history and the hearts of Spurs fans. With Son’s departure and key injuries in the squad, Tottenham must now navigate a crucial transition period — and finding the right attacking reinforcements will be essential.
Spurs’ New Era: Life After Son Heung-min
Son’s remarkable tally of 173 goals in all competitions places him fifth in Tottenham’s all-time scoring charts. His 127 Premier League strikes put him among the division’s top 20 scorers. His final gift to the club — a Europa League triumph in Bilbao — was a fitting end to a legendary tenure.
While the emotional and tactical void Son leaves behind won’t be easily filled, Tottenham have already taken steps, including making Mathys Tel’s loan from Bayern Munich permanent. But more work lies ahead, especially if Spurs aim to stay competitive under Thomas Frank’s evolving system. Here are four forwards who could be realistic — or ambitious — options to usher in the post-Son era.
1. Randal Kolo Muani – Versatility with European Pedigree
Linked with Spurs during the January window, Randal Kolo Muani chose Juventus for the latter half of the 2025–26 season, where he impressed with eight goals in 16 Serie A outings. Though still on PSG’s books, negotiations with Juventus for a permanent deal have stalled.
Tottenham may have a renewed chance to step in. Kolo Muani’s flexibility — capable of playing across the frontline — fits the mold of players Frank has utilized effectively in the past. With PSG reportedly open to another loan move with a buy clause, Spurs could reignite talks for the 26-year-old Frenchman, especially if Juventus can’t get their finances in order.
2. Iliman Ndiaye – A Wildcard with Creative Promise
As injuries pile up — most notably to James Maddison and Dejan Kulusevski — Tottenham may need someone who can create as much as they can finish. Everton’s Iliman Ndiaye might not be a traditional replacement for Son, but he brings a unique skillset.
Ndiaye was a standout performer in preseason and notched nine goals last term. His dribbling ability, relentless work ethic, and versatility make him a compelling option in Frank’s adaptive system. He’s not yet on the radar of Europe’s biggest clubs — but that may change soon. Spurs would be wise to move before interest intensifies.
3. Rodrygo – The Ambitious, Big-Name Option
If Tottenham want to make a bold statement, Rodrygo could be that headline-grabbing signing. The Real Madrid winger is reportedly available following a quiet run at the Club World Cup. Arsenal and Liverpool have expressed interest, but Spurs have been loosely linked as well.
Acquiring Rodrygo would be a coup — and a major shift from Tottenham’s usual recruitment strategy. Although the financial challenge is steep, with Madrid once valuing him at €90 million, there’s speculation that fee could come down. Spurs have shown they’re willing to spend (e.g., bidding £60 million for Morgan Gibbs-White), but matching Rodrygo’s salary expectations could be a bigger hurdle than the transfer fee itself.
4. Rafael Leão – A Potential Star in Need of a Reboot
AC Milan’s Rafael Leão remains one of Europe’s most tantalizing talents. While his 2021–22 MVP campaign promised superstardom, inconsistent form and managerial turmoil at San Siro have seen his stock fluctuate. However, the arrival of Massimiliano Allegri appears to have revitalized the Portuguese winger’s spirit.
Leão’s explosiveness in transition and flair on the ball could make him a cornerstone in Frank’s system. Milan, though, aren’t desperate to sell, and the 26-year-old’s contract gives them the leverage to demand a significant fee. Still, if Spurs are aiming high to replace Son, Leão’s ceiling might justify the gamble.
Spurs Face a Defining Decision
Replacing a club legend like Son Heung-min is a monumental task, but Tottenham have options — both practical and ambitious — to reshape their attack. Whether they opt for a versatile operator like Kolo Muani, a creative spark like Ndiaye, or swing for the fences with Rodrygo or Leão, the coming weeks could define the club’s trajectory for seasons to come.
