After ten years in north London, Son Heung-Min is heading west – all the way to Los Angeles.
The South Korean star has signed for Major League Soccer’s Los Angeles FC in a record-breaking deal worth more than £20 million, according to BBC Sport. It’s the highest transfer fee in MLS history.
“I won’t lie. LAFC wasn’t my first choice,” Son said at a press conference this week. “But after my first call with John Thorrington, he changed my heart, my brain. I saw where I needed to be.”
That call – from LAFC’s co-president – proved pivotal. What began as a surprise offer soon became a personal mission for Son, who described Thorrington’s pitch as “inspiring”.
“I’m here now and more than happy,” he added. “This is a dream come true.”
The 33-year-old winger, who served as Tottenham’s captain, was unveiled during LAFC’s 2-1 Leagues Cup win over Tigres UANL on Tuesday night. His contract runs for two years, with the option to extend for two more.
Son leaves Spurs after 454 matches and 173 goals — making him one of the club’s most prolific and beloved players. His final appearance came just days ago, in a 1-1 draw against Newcastle in Seoul, his home city.
He joined Tottenham in 2015 from Bayer Leverkusen and quickly became a fan favourite for his pace, finishing, and positive attitude. This past May, he captained the side to their first trophy in 17 years – a Europa League triumph over Manchester United.
Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy was full of praise:
“Sonny is one of the greatest players to ever wear the Lilywhite shirt. A joy to watch and an even better human being,” he said in a statement. “We’re grateful for everything he’s given us, on and off the pitch.”
Son’s move to LA reunites him with former Spurs teammate Hugo Lloris, now the club’s goalkeeper. LAFC are currently sixth in the Western Conference and looking to climb higher as the playoffs approach.
“Los Angeles has a history of champions,” Son said in a statement from the club. “I’m here to help write the next chapter. I came to lift trophies and give everything for the fans.”
His transfer fee eclipses the previous record of £16.5m set earlier this year, when Atlanta United signed Emmanuel Latte Lath from Middlesbrough.
For MLS, it’s another statement signing -proof that the league can still attract global stars, not just at the end of their careers, but when they still have much to give.
For Tottenham, it’s the end of a golden chapter – and a farewell to a player who, by all accounts, gave them everything.
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