LOS ANGELES – August 6, 2025
Los Angeles Football Club (LAFC) have pulled off a seismic signing, securing South Korean legend Son Heung-min from Tottenham Hotspur in what’s now the most expensive incoming transfer in Major League Soccer (MLS) history. The fee, reported at around $26.5 million (approximately £20 million), shattered previous records and signaled LAFC’s ambition to dominate both on and off the field.
A Star’s Arrival and Emotional Departure
Son, 33, concluded a remarkable 10-year tenure at Spurs, featuring in 454 matches and netting 173 goals, including a recent crowning moment—leading the club to their first major trophy in 17 years with the Europa League win in May.
At his LAFC unveiling at BMO Stadium, Son described his move as a “dream come true,” expressing a clear message: “I’m here to win.” His emotional farewell reflected both excitement for the new chapter and genuine sentiment for his Spurs legacy.
Why This Move Matters
- MLS’s Game-Changer: The record-breaking price tag eclipses former top purchases, like Emmanuel Latte Lath’s $22 million transfer to Atlanta United.
- Strategic Signing: LAFC’s general manager, John Thorrington, lauded Son as “a global icon” whose ambition and character align deeply with the club’s ethos.
- Community and Cultural Impact: The move resonated strongly with Los Angeles’ Korean-American community. Son’s arrival near Koreatown adds meaningful cultural significance to the signing.
A New Era for Both Club and Player
Son brings not just marquee value to LAFC but also a wealth of World Cup-level experience—a perfect fit as the club eyes domestic supremacy and continental success. His presence offers mentorship to emerging talents and elevates MLS’s global stature.
What’s Next?
- Debut Anticipation: Son’s first appearance in Black & Gold is eagerly awaited, though an official date remains unconfirmed amid the team’s ongoing schedule.
- Legacy in the Making: In MLS, Son is poised to carry forward his elite level of play while reshaping the league’s global image—becoming a cultural and sporting legend in the process.
Summary Table
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Transfer Fee | ~USD $26.5 million (MLS record) |
| From / To | Tottenham Hotspur → LAFC |
| Tenure at Spurs | 10 years, 454 appearances, 173 goals |
| Quotes | “Dream come true,” and “I’m here to win.” |
| Impact | Elevates MLS, inspires Korean community in LA, adds star power to LAFC |
