Football sensation Son Heung-min to depart from Tottenham Hotspur in South Korea
Son Heung-min Bids Farewell to Tottenham Hotspur for a New Challenge in MLS
In a surprising turn of events, Son Heung-min, the South Korean footballing legend and Premier League star, has announced his decision to leave Tottenham Hotspur after a decade with the club. The 33-year-old forward is in advanced negotiations for a transfer to LAFC in Major League Soccer (MLS), a move that could reshape the landscape of the league and elevate LAFC's competitive chances.
The news came after Son's emotional farewell speech during a preseason friendly game against Newcastle United. Speaking about his decision, Son expressed his need for a new environment to push himself and stated that 10 years with Tottenham Hotspur was a long time for him.
Son Heung-min joined Tottenham Hotspur at the age of 23 and quickly became a fan favourite. His tenure at the club was marked by numerous memorable moments, including being joint top scorer in the Premier League during the 2021-22 season with 23 goals. He also played a pivotal role in Tottenham's Europa League victory in May 2022, scoring a crucial goal in the final against Manchester United.
Thomas Frank, the new Spurs coach, hailed Son Heung-min as "a true Spurs legend in every aspect, one of the greatest players to play in the Premier League." In a heartfelt tribute, Frank acknowledged Son's contributions to the club, saying, "He leaves Tottenham Hotspur as a grown man, a very proud man."
Son Heung-min's departure from Tottenham Hotspur will take effect before the Premier League season begins. He leaves the club with a stellar record, having scored 173 goals in 454 matches. He is also the most high-profile athlete ever for South Korea and a sporting icon in his home country.
LAFC is keen to finalize the deal, having nearly reached a personal contract agreement with Son while negotiating the transfer fee with Tottenham. The transfer fee is reportedly in the range of $20 million to $27 million, which would make Son the most expensive incoming transfer in MLS history if finalized at the higher fee.
Analysts suggest this signing could considerably elevate LAFC’s competitive chances for the 2025 MLS Cup and enhance the league’s international profile. Son's presence is expected to reshape team dynamics by adding a proven goal scorer and leader, potentially making LAFC a top contender and raising the overall standard within MLS.
Tottenham fans and the club regard this as an emotional departure given Son’s long service and captaincy, but the club appears supportive of the transfer as part of his career progression. Son Heung-min, a national hero in South Korea, will continue to make history as he embarks on a new chapter in his career with LAFC.
[1] MLS Insider: LAFC in advanced talks with Son Heung-min
[2] LAFC's potential signing of Son Heung-min could elevate MLS's international profile
[3] Son Heung-min announces decision to leave Tottenham Hotspur
- Son Heung-min might reshape the European-leagues landscape after he announced his decision to join Major League Soccer (MLS) and LAFC, a move that could significantly elevate MLS's international profile.
- As a Premier League star and South Korean footballing legend, Son Heung-min is in advanced negotiations with LAFC, potentially making the 2025 MLS Cup more competitive due to his addition as a proven goal scorer and leader.
