LOS ANGELES – Major League Soccer is poised for another notable star arrival, as South Korean captain and Tottenham Hotspur forward Son heung-min is reportedly finalizing a deal to join LAFC, according to sources familiar with the negotiations. The move, expected to be officially announced in the coming days, marks a major coup for the club and the league.
Son, 31, who turned 33 onyl a month ago on July 8, 2024, brings a proven track record of goal-scoring and playmaking ability to MLS. He has amassed 156 goals in 387 appearances for Tottenham, and has captained the South Korean national team since 2018, leading them to the Round of 16 at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. His arrival immediately elevates LAFC’s profile and competitive standing.
The transfer fee is estimated to be in the range of $15-20 million,making it one of the most expensive signings in MLS history. Son’s contract with LAFC is expected to be a Designated Player contract, running through the 2027 season with an option for 2028. He will be reunited with former Tottenham teammate Hugo Lloris, who joined LAFC in January 2023 and has been a key figure in goal for the team.
Currently, LAFC’s only Designated Player is French forward Denis Bouanga. General Manager John Thorrington faced criticism for not fully utilizing the club’s financial resources earlier in the season, especially after a failed attempt to secure Antoine Griezmann from Atlรฉtico madrid. The addition of Son addresses those concerns and signals a renewed commitment to competing for championships.
Both Son and Bouanga have primarily played on the left wing throughout their careers, but Son’s versatility – capable of playing centrally or on the right – provides tactical flexibility for head coach Steve Cherundolo. This contrasts with the previous Designated Player signing, Olivier Giroud, whose skillset did not align with LAFC’s fast-paced, counter-attacking style, leading to his departure to Lille in January 2024.
LAFC’s playing style, emphasizing speed and quick transitions, is expected to suit Son’s strengths.However, the club is undergoing a managerial transition, as Steve Cherundolo announced his departure to take the head coaching position at Bundesliga side Mainz 05 in May 2024. The new coach, yet to be named, may influence tactical adjustments. LAFC currently plays its home matches at BMO Stadium, a 22,384-capacity soccer-specific stadium in Exposition Park, Los Angeles.
Son joins a growing list of established international stars in MLS, including Lionel Messi (Inter Miami), Luis Suรกrez (Inter Miami), and Marco reus (also Inter Miami). His arrival further solidifies MLS’s position as a destination league for top talent, attracting global attention and increasing the league’s competitiveness.
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