Son Heung-Min Says LAFC GM \'Changed My Heart In Record MLS Transfer
Son Heung-min officially joined LAFC Wednesday in the most expensive inbound transfer in MLS history, signing through 2027 with options extending into 2029 after completing his decade-long tenure at Tottenham.
The 33-year-old South Korean forward was unveiled at BMO Stadium during a ceremony attended by Los Angeles mayor Karen Bass and supporters group The 3252. Son admitted LAFC was initially \"not my first choice\" but credited general manager John Thorrington with changing his perspective during their first phone conversation.
Former Tottenham teammate Hugo Lloris helped recruit Son by advising about Los Angeles\' qualities. The estimated 320,000 Koreans living in greater Los Angeles also influenced his decision to join the Western Conference club.
\"As a Korean, to know that Koreatown here in Los Angeles has so many Koreans, here in this country, I\'m very proud to be a part of the club and the city,\" Son said through an interpreter. \"And I\'ll make them proud with my performance.\"
Son explained his Tottenham departure last weekend, calling it \"the most difficult decision I have made in my career.\" He cited achieving everything possible at Spurs and needing a fresh challenge in a new environment.
Son could debut Saturday against Chicago Fire pending P-1 visa approval. His home debut won\'t occur until September due to LAFC\'s upcoming road schedule.
\"Obviously I\'m here to perform,\" Son said. \"But also I want to give some advice to the young players for improvement.\"
LAFC currently sits sixth in the Western Conference, 10 points behind San Diego FC but with games in hand. The club remains positioned for playoff qualification and potential MLS Cup contention in their eight-year history.