LAFC welcomes Son Heung-min following transfer from Tottenham Hotspur, with the player expressing that another club would have been his preference.
Son Heung-min, a global soccer icon and a household name in the Premier League, has made a landmark move to Major League Soccer (MLS) by joining Los Angeles FC (LAFC) in a record-breaking transfer worth approximately $26.5 million. The deal, announced at an introductory press conference held at BMO Stadium, marks a significant moment for both MLS and Asian footballers worldwide.
The South Korean soccer star spent a decade at Tottenham Hotspur, becoming a club legend and setting numerous records. During his tenure, he scored an impressive 173 goals across all competitions and provided 101 assists. In the 2021–22 season, he became the first Asian player to win the Premier League Golden Boot. He also captained Tottenham to win the UEFA Europa League in the 2024-25 season, ending a 17-year trophy drought for the club.
Son's international career is equally noteworthy. He has represented South Korea's national team in over 130 appearances and played in three FIFA World Cups.
Son's departure from Tottenham was an emotional decision for him, but his intention remains clear: to win. He expressed this sentiment during the press conference, energized by the support of the fans during the Leagues Cup match between his new team and Tigres UANL.
The transfer fee of $26.5 million sets a new MLS incoming transfer record, surpassing previous signings such as Kévin Denkey and Emmanuel Latte Lath. The move is being compared to Lionel Messi’s impact on MLS with Inter Miami, marking a significant moment for the league.
Son signed an initial two-year contract with LAFC and made his debut shortly after transferring in August 2025. The press conference was attended by various media, fans, and luminaries, including Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass.
Son watched the Leagues Cup match between his new team and Tigres UANL before making his announcement, expressing his excitement to join his new teammates and run onto the pitch and perform. This move from the Premier League to Major League Soccer is a testament to the growing global appeal of soccer and the MLS.
Son Heung-min, now a member of Los Angeles FC (LAFC), will continue to make his mark in football, having scored 173 goals and provided 101 assists during his decade at Tottenham Hotspur. As he aims to win with his new team, his signing is being compared to the impact of Lionel Messi on MLS with Inter Miami, further fueling the global appeal of sports, particularly football, and the Major League Soccer.
