Son Heung-min Joins LAFC in MLS Record $26 Million Transfer
Son Heung-min is set to join LAFC from Tottenham in a deal worth around $26 million, breaking MLS's incoming transfer record previously held by Atlanta United's $22 million signing of Emmanuel Latte Lath.
Tottenham Hotspur captain Son Heung-min is set to join Los Angeles FC in a transfer that will break MLS's incoming transfer record, sources confirmed to ESPN. The 33-year-old South Korean forward announced his departure from Tottenham last weekend after 10 years with the Premier League club.
LAFC is expected to pay around $26 million for Son, surpassing the current MLS record of $22 million that Atlanta United paid for Emmanuel Latte Lath in February 2025.
Transfer Details
The transfer fee is reportedly between $20-26 million, with Tottenham seeking around $27 million while LAFC has proposed approximately $20 million. Son played his final game for Tottenham on Sunday in Seoul during a friendly against Newcastle United, receiving a standing ovation and guard of honor from both teams.
If finalized, Son is expected to become one of MLS's highest-paid players, potentially earning more than Inter Miami's Sergio Busquets ($8.7 million annually) but remaining below Lionel Messi ($20.4 million) and Lorenzo Insigne ($15.4 million).
Son's Career at Tottenham
Son joined Tottenham from Bayer Leverkusen in 2015 and scored 173 goals with 101 assists in 454 matches. He was named captain in 2023 and led the team to the Europa League title in the 2024-25 season, ending Tottenham's 17-year trophy drought. For South Korea, Son has been captain since 2019 and holds the record for most caps and goals among current players.
LAFC's Current Status
LAFC currently sits sixth in MLS's Western Conference, though they have games in hand on teams above them. The club has a 10-6-6 record and trails division leader San Diego FC by 10 points. LAFC returns to MLS play on August 9 against Chicago Fire FC. The move reunites Son with former Tottenham teammate Hugo Lloris, who joined LAFC last year.
World Cup Considerations
Son cited the upcoming 2026 World Cup in North America as a factor in his decision, stating he wants to be "in an environment where I can give it my all" for what could be his final World Cup.
