Major League Soccer has just made a statement. Son Heung-min's move to LAFC is not only surprising, but also historic. The South Korean attacker, one of the most respected figures in European soccer, has opted to leave Tottenham Hotspur to begin a new chapter in the United States

His arrival not only strengthens the Californian team, but also demonstrates that MLS has become an attractive destination for players in good shape.

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A signing that breaks the stereotypes of MLS

• For years, Major League Soccer (MLS) has been characterized by attracting two types of talent: young players eager to shine or veterans close to retirement who see the league as one last adventure. However, Son Heung-min does not fit into either of those categories.
• At 33 years of age, the South Korean star is still an elite player who could perfectly well be shining at Barcelona, Bayern Munich or even still competing in the Premier League. However, he decided to swap north London for Southern California.
• His transfer to Los Angeles Football Club (LAFC), for a fee in the region of $20 and $26 million, is a clear sign that MLS is ready to compete for talent in its prime.

Son Heung-min, much more than a goalscorer

During his decade at Tottenham Hotspur, Son Heung-min became a club legend. Not only for his goals and speed, but also for his human qualities. He organised dinners for the team staff, was godfather to team-mates' children and treated everyone with the same respect, regardless of their role in the club.

His impact on the Premier League was remarkable: he helped Spurs to their first title in 17 years and broke records as the Asian with the most goals in the English league.

Nos vemos hoy ⏳

🆚 @TigresOficial
🏟️ @BMOStadium
🖥️ @AppleTV with #MLSSeasonPass
📺 @Azteca in Mexico
🎧 @ESPNLosAngeles#LAFC | @LeaguesCup pic.twitter.com/n49kzJ6Twa

— LAFC (@LAFC) August 5, 2025

Why did Son Heung-min choose MLS and LAFC?

• While many expected Son to make the leap to another European club, he surprised everyone by opting for a growing league. According to sources close to the player, the striker rejected multiple offers from major teams in Europe and Asia, demonstrating that his decision was not economic, but personal and strategic.
• Los Angeles is home to one of the largest Korean communities outside of South Korea, making LAFC the ideal place for Son both athletically and culturally. This factor, coupled with his desire to experience something different, was key to closing the deal.

Last chance for these clubs to jump into the @LeaguesCup top four. 🙌

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— Major League Soccer (@MLS) August 5, 2025

Immediate impact on LAFC and MLS

LAFC is not going through its best moment of the season. They are currently in sixth place in the Western Conference, with a record of 10 wins, six draws and six defeats. The arrival of Son could be the boost the team needs to establish itself as a title contender.

In addition, from a sports marketing perspective, the presence of a figure like Son Heung-min will attract new fans, especially within the Asian community in the United States, something that could mean an increase in ticket sales, jerseys and international presence of the league.

The signing is expected to be made official in early August, just in time for Son to make his debut and help improve LAFC's performance heading into the final stretch of the season.