Son Heung-Min has completed a move from Tottenham Hotspurs to Los Angeles FC in the most expensive deal in Major League Soccer history, Afrosport reports.
The 33-year-old moves to LA for a reported fee of $26 million. It surpasses the previous MLS record of $22m, which Atlanta United paid Middlesbrough for Ivorian forward Emmanuel Latte Lath in February.
LAFC on Wednesday confirmed the acquisition of the South Korean on an initial two-year designated player contract until 2027, with the option for an additional two years.
“I’m incredibly proud to be joining LAFC, a club with big ambitions in one of the most iconic sports cities in the world,” said Son, who will wear the No. 7 shirt. “Los Angeles has such a rich history of champions, and I am here to help write the next chapter.
“I’m excited for this new challenge in MLS. I have come to L.A. to lift trophies and give everything for this club, this city, and its fans. I can’t wait to get started.”
Son played his last game for Tottenham in a 1-1 pre-season friendly against Newcastle in South Korea on Sunday, a day after announcing his decision to leave the Premier League club after 10 years.
He joined Spurs from Bayer Leverkusen in 2015 and flourished during his stay in North London, scoring 173 goals and providing 101 assists in 454 appearances for the club in all competitions.
During his decade-long career with Tottenham, Son became the first Asian player to win the Premier League Golden Boot in 2021–22, and the first Asian player to reach 100 goals in the English top division.
He captained the Lilywhites to Europa League triumph in May, ending their 17-year wait for a major trophy.
“Sonny is a global icon and one of the most dynamic and accomplished players in world football,” LAFC Co-president & general manager John Thorrington said. “His ambition, ability, and character align perfectly with our values at LAFC.
“We are proud that he has chosen Los Angeles for the next chapter of his extraordinary career. Sonny is a proven winner and a world-class individual, and we are confident he will elevate our club and inspire our community – both on and off the pitch.”
Son made his international debut for South Korea in December 2010 and has since scored 51 goals in 134 appearances. He sits third in the all-time ranking for appearances and second in goals for the South Korean national team.
The forward was in attendance during LAFC’s 2-1 win over Mexican side Tigres UANL in the Leagues Cup on Tuesday.
He is the latest in a long list of superstar arrivals at LAFC, joining the likes of Carlos Vela, Giorgio Chiellini, Olivier Giroud, and former Tottenham team-mates Gareth Bale and Hugo Lloris.
Son will reunite with Lloris in Los Angeles, with LAFC currently sixth in the Western Conference in MLS.
