Son Heung-min outshines Lionel Messi: New LAFC star breaks new ground in MLS before even kicking a ball

Son Heung-min is already stealing some of the limelight in Major League Soccer. The South Korean icon has yet to debut for LAFC officially, but he has already shattered one of the league’s most significant records — a landmark even Lionel Messi hadn’t touched.

After a glittering decade at Tottenham, Son Heung-min confirmed his departure in an emotional farewell following a 1-1 friendly against Newcastle United in Seoul. With 173 goals and 101 assists in 454 appearances, he leaves Spurs as one of the most celebrated figures in the club’s history. He captained the team to their first major trophy in 17 years — a UEFA Europa League title in May 2025 — before saying goodbye.

“The main reason is I have achieved everything I can at Tottenham. I need a new environment for a fresh challenge,” Son explained in his final press conference. “I’m grateful the club have respected my decision.” Now, the 33-year-old winger is preparing to start a new chapter in the United States with LAFC, a club looking to return to its title-winning form from 2022. And Son isn’t coming quietly — he’s making history before even stepping onto the pitch.

According to ESPN and The Athletic, Son’s move to Los Angeles will cost the club approximately $26.5 million — the most expensive transfer in MLS history. This figure surpasses the previous record set by Atlanta United, which paid $22 million for Emmanuel Latte Lath earlier in 2025.

With this deal, Son becomes the first player to eclipse even the financial benchmarks associated with Lionel Messi’s arrival, as the Argentine superstar joined Inter Miami on a free transfer, albeit with a highly incentivized commercial package.

From Premier League hero to MLS superstar

Son’s signing isn’t just about soccer — it’s a cultural milestone. LA has the largest Korean population outside of Korea, and the excitement around Son’s arrival is palpable. Fans flocked to Los Angeles International Airport in hopes of catching a glimpse of their idol, even before his official presentation.

The 33-year-old is more than a goalscorer. He’s a global marketing icon, with endorsement deals from Adidas, Burberry, Calvin Klein, and even a custom skin in Fortnite — a status shared by only a handful of players worldwide.