Tottenham will hold discussions with South Korean sports chiefs about the prospect of Heung-min Son missing games to play for his country.

South Korea are keen to have Son, arguably the best current Asian footballer, as one of three over-age players in an Under-23 squad taking part in the Asian Games from August 18 to September 2. That would absent him from Spurs’ early fixtures next term.

When a similar issue arose four years ago, Bayer Leverkusen would not let Son link up with his country. Because the tournament is not part of FIFA’s official calendar, clubs are not obliged to release players for it.

Yet Son, who joined Tottenham from Leverkusen in 2015, could be let off military service if he plays in the Asian Games and South Korea win gold.

The South Korean government has allowed gold-medal winners exemption from conscription in the past, so should the 25-year-old help South Korea to victory, he could possibly avoid his mandatory two-year stint, which he is supposed to begin by the age of 28.

Of Son’s involvement, South Korea Under-23 coach Hak-Bum Kim said: “I’m going to pick him unless there’s a special situation. I believe there’s not going to be a big problem.”

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Son has been in fine form for Tottenham recently and, in the absence of injured Harry Kane, is expected to lead their attack in the FA Cup quarter-final at Swansea on Saturday. Kane was due for further assessments on his ankle today with Spurs fearing he will be out for at least a month.