Son Heung-min has completed a permanent transfer to Los Angeles FC, ending a decade-long spell at Tottenham Hotspur.
The 33-year-old forward joins the Major League Soccer side for a record fee of 26 million US dollars, or 19.5 million pounds, making it the most expensive transfer in MLS history.
Son, who was unveiled at LAFC’s 2–1 Leagues Cup win over Tigres UANL on Tuesday, finalised the move after completing medical tests and paperwork earlier this week.
The South Korean international had announced his departure in a press conference on Saturday, following Tottenham’s 1–1 pre-season draw against Newcastle in Seoul, where he made his final appearance for the club.
Since arriving at Spurs from Bayer Leverkusen in 2015, Son scored 173 goals in 454 appearances and became a fan favourite for both his attacking flair and his work ethic.
He captained the side to Europa League success in May, when they beat Manchester United in the final to secure the club’s first silverware in 17 years.
His move surpasses the previous MLS transfer record set earlier this year when Atlanta United paid 16.5 million pounds for Emmanuel Latte Lath from Middlesbrough.
Son will be reunited at LAFC with former Tottenham team-mate Hugo Lloris, who joined the club earlier in the season.
LAFC are currently sixth in the Western Conference and will hope Son’s arrival boosts their playoff push.
Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy paid tribute to the departing star, calling him “one of the greatest players to ever wear the famous Lilywhite shirt.”
Levy described Son as not only a gifted footballer but an “incredible human being” who inspired fans and teammates alike.
“He will always be welcome back as a beloved and cherished member of our Spurs family,” Levy added.
