Los Angeles FC (LAFC) is reportedly close to finalizing a deal to bring Tottenham Hotspur legend Son Heung-min to Major League Soccer (MLS). Multiple reports indicate that a verbal agreement has been reached between LAFC and the South Korean superstar.
Son Heung-min announced his departure from Tottenham after a decade with the club at a press conference in Seoul. He expressed that it was not an easy decision but that he felt it was the right time to leave. He mentioned his desire for a new challenge and a new environment to push himself.
The negotiations between LAFC and Tottenham are expected to move quickly. LAFC has reportedly proposed a transfer fee of around $20 million, while Tottenham is seeking $27 million. If the deal goes through at the higher rate, it would become the most expensive incoming MLS transfer ever, surpassing Atlanta United's $22 million purchase of Emmanuel Latte Lath. Even at $20 million, it would still be the second-highest, ahead of Kevin Denkey's transfer to FC Cincinnati.
Personal terms have reportedly been agreed upon between LAFC and Son, positioning him to be one of the top three highest-paid players in MLS. He could potentially earn more than Sergio Busquets ($8.7 million annually) and might even become the second-highest earner in the league, potentially only behind Lionel Messi ($20.4 million annually), especially if Lorenzo Insigne departs from Toronto FC.
Son played what is expected to be his final game for Tottenham in a friendly against Newcastle in Seoul on Sunday. He was subbed off to a standing ovation.
Several factors are believed to have played a key role in Son's decision to join LAFC. Los Angeles has a thriving South Korean community, which is understood to be a significant draw for the player. The opportunity to be in the United States a year before the 2026 World Cup, which will be co-hosted in North America, is also considered a factor.
Son's arrival would make him a marquee player in MLS. He has a proven track record, scoring 173 goals in 454 games for Spurs. He also helped Tottenham win the Europa League, their first trophy in 17 years.
LAFC has been actively making moves in the transfer market. Recent signings include Marlon, O. Giroud, Igor Jesus, Odin Holm, Aaron Long, Y. Yeboah, N. Tafari, and M. Delgado. The club has also seen several players depart, including C. Vela, R. Raposo, A. Saldaña, and Cengiz Ünder.
Son's potential move to LAFC has generated excitement and debate. Some believe he could be the league's biggest signing since Lionel Messi and a game-changer for LAFC. Others are curious to see how he would fit into the team's lineup alongside players like Denis Bouanga.
Son's departure marks the end of an era for Tottenham. He joined the club in 2015 and has become a beloved figure, known for his skill, work ethic, and positive attitude. He leaves having won the Premier League Golden Boot and the Puskás Award.
