Son Heung-min Shatters MLS Transfer Record with Blockbuster LAFC Deal
Los Angeles FC has reportedly completed the acquisition of Son Heung-min, the Tottenham Hotspur and South Korean forward, in what would establish a new Major League Soccer record for player acquisitions.
The agreement has been finalized and LAFC is anticipated to unveil Son as their newest signing within the next few days, according to The Athletic. Sources including ESPN and GiveMeSport indicate the transfer fee reaches approximately $26.5 million (£20 million) for the attacking player, surpassing the previous league benchmark of $22 million set by Atlanta United's Emmanuel Latte Lath.
At age 33, this acquisition marks one of the most significant moves in MLS history. Along with Lionel Messi, Son becomes another internationally recognized talent who could generate additional attention for the league while positioning LAFC as a serious MLS Cup challenger. Messi's national teammate, Rodrigo De Paul, has similarly joined MLS during this transfer window.
The club currently sits in sixth position within the Western Conference standings. Adding Son to their roster could elevate their league standing and potentially help them compete for their first MLS Cup championship since 2022. During that successful campaign, they also claimed the Supporters' Shield, recognizing the team with the highest regular season point total across both conferences.
Son's influence should be immediate considering his Premier League statistics of 198 goal contributions (127 goals, 71 assists). The South Korean international and Harry Kane formed one of the most dangerous offensive duos for several seasons under current USMNT manager Mauricio Pochettino, advancing to the UEFA Champions League final in 2019.
Considered a Tottenham Hotspur icon, Son bid farewell to his colleagues following the team's preseason match against Newcastle United. The emotional departure included a respectful send-off from Newcastle players as he exited the field at a club he has represented since 2015. His final campaign with the team concluded his time there with a Europa League title despite the club's 17th-place Premier League finish.
Son brings fresh attacking options to Steve Cherundolo's squad that already includes 2023 Golden Boot champion Denis Bouanga. Additionally, Son will reunite with former Spurs goalkeeper Hugo Lloris in Los Angeles.