Well, well, well, lads and lasses—Tottenham’s beloved Son Heung-min is trading the bright lights of London for the Hollywood sign. Los Angeles FC is on the verge of smashing the MLS transfer record with a staggering $27 million (£20 million) deal for the South Korean star. That’s more cash than I’ve spent on pre-match pies in my entire life!
Record-Breaking Transfer Fee
The Spurs captain is currently jetting across the pond to complete his medical and finalize what will be a landmark move for American football (the proper football, mind you). The $27 million fee will surpass the previous MLS record of $22 million (approximately £16.5 million) that Atlanta United paid for Emmanuel Latte Lath earlier this year.
A Fond Farewell to Tottenham
Son has been a loyal servant to Spurs since 2015, making his final appearance in a pre-season friendly against Newcastle. In an emotional press conference alongside new Spurs manager Thomas Frank, Son publicly confirmed his decision to depart:
“Before we start the press conference, I just want to share that I’ve decided to leave the club in the summer. Respectfully, the club is helping me with my decision.”
Clearly feeling the weight of his choice, Son described it as “the most difficult decision of my football career.” He added, “I’ve been here ten years at a beautiful club with beautiful fans and having such amazing memories. After all that, it was so hard to make this decision. But I feel like I need a new environment and to push myself.”
Son’s Incredible Legacy at Tottenham
It’s hard to overstate Son’s impact at Tottenham. He ranks seventh on the club’s all-time appearance list with 454 matches and has scored 127 goals in the Premier League, placing him 16th on the all-time top goalscorers list—above legends like Steven Gerrard and Ian Wright.
His departure comes shortly after lifting silverware as club captain when Spurs claimed the Europa League in May. However, Sunday’s farewell match was somewhat overshadowed by a concerning knee injury to James Maddison, who left the pitch in tears and on a stretcher.
A Legacy Remembered
“I love players that give so much to a football club. He’s been an absolute legend at the football club and seemingly just a great lad to be around. He’s been a true professional who fans should applaud.”
As Son trades his Spurs shirt for LAFC’s black and gold, it’s worth remembering the mark he has left on English football. Tottenham fans will undoubtedly wish him well in his American adventure, though they might need to adjust their sleep schedules to catch his new 3 AM kickoffs. Better stock up on coffee and biscuits, folks!