South Korean superstar Son Heung-min to join LAFC in blockbuster move

South Korea captain Son Heung-min has finalized a $26 million move from Tottenham Hotspur to Los Angeles FC, which will break Major League Soccer’s all-time incoming transfer record. The deal, which is expected to be announced this week, surpasses the $22 million fee paid by Atlanta United for forward Emmanuel Latte Lath in 2023.

Son joined Tottenham from Bayer Leverkusen in 2015 for a then-club record fee of $30 million. Over his 10-year career in North London, he made 454 appearances and scored 173 goals across all competitions. In the Premier League, he recorded 113 goals and 65 assists in 317 matches. He made history by winning the Golden Boot in 2022 and captained the squad to its first major trophy in 17 years with a Europa League title in 2025.

Son confirmed his departure during a press conference in Seoul on Aug. 2, calling it “one of the most difficult decisions” of his career. “Tottenham will always be my home,” he said. “But I am excited for a new challenge and to help LAFC achieve even greater things in MLS.” He added, “I came to North London as a kid, 23 years old … I leave this club as a grown man, a very proud man.” A farewell match at Seoul World Cup Stadium drew a sellout crowd, with tributes from fans and teammates in both South Korea and the United Kingdom.

Son is scheduled to arrive in Los Angeles later this week to complete a medical and sign a Designated Player contract through the 2026 MLS season. While his salary has not been publicly disclosed, the agreement includes image rights and commercial incentives, which could potentially place him among the league’s highest-paid players.

Son’s arrival is expected to resonate strongly in L.A., home to one of the largest Korean American communities in the U.S. He will reportedly make his MLS debut on Aug. 9 against the Chicago Fire, with a likely home debut at BMO Stadium on Sept. 1 against San Diego FC.