Mansion Sports - Tottenham Hotspur captain Son Heung-min is reportedly edging closer to the end of his nearly decade-long tenure with the North London club. 

The South Korean forward has attracted significant interest from Major League Soccer side Los Angeles FC (LAFC) as well as several wealthy Saudi Pro League clubs, all of whom are closely monitoring his situation.

A Decline in Form and an Expiring Contract

Son experienced a noticeable dip in form last season, scoring just seven goals in the Premier League. 

It marked the first time since the 2015–2016 campaign that he failed to reach double digits in league goals. 

This underwhelming performance came despite his role in ending Tottenham’s 10-year trophy drought, having lifted the UEFA Europa League title following a 1-0 victory over Manchester United in May.

His current contract with Tottenham is set to expire in one year, and he is reportedly earning a weekly salary of around £200,000. 

While Saudi interest has persisted—most notably from Al Ittihad, who pursued him in 2023—the club, despite boasting stars such as Karim Benzema, N’Golo Kanté, and Fabinho, was unable to secure his services at that time.

Also Read: “Tottenham Enters the Race to Sign Rodrygo from Real Madrid”

LAFC Preparing a Major Bid During MLS Transfer Window

Interest from LAFC has become increasingly tangible. A report from The Athletic revealed that the California-based club is preparing a marquee transfer move, particularly in the wake of the MLS All-Star Game, in which MLS defeated Liga MX 3-1. LAFC forward Denis Bouanga featured in the match, further spotlighting the club’s ambitions.

Tottenham’s new manager, Thomas Frank, has yet to provide a definitive stance on Son’s future. 

“At the moment, I have a player who is training with great commitment and will play tomorrow,” he stated during a press conference. 

“But when a player has been with a club for a long time, there are always decisions the club must make.”

With MLS’s secondary transfer window open until August 21, LAFC is in a position to submit an official offer to Tottenham at any moment. However, any potential transfer is likely to be delayed until after Spurs complete their financially lucrative pre-season tour of Hong Kong and South Korea.

Contractual Obligations in Seoul May Delay Move

Tottenham is contractually obligated to field Son in their friendly against Newcastle United in Seoul on August 3. If he fails to appear, the club could lose up to 75 percent of the revenue guaranteed from the event. 

This requirement is believed to be one of the main reasons why the transfer has yet to be formally announced.

Playing Style and Korean Community Appeal Boost LAFC’s Bid

Despite being 33 years old, Son is still viewed as an ideal fit for LAFC’s fast-paced, counter-attacking style of play. His presence on the flanks would provide depth and variety to an already potent attack, currently spearheaded by Denis Bouanga.

Beyond on-field contributions, Son's arrival would significantly enhance LAFC’s brand visibility. The club has a large Korean-American community in Los Angeles, and Son’s presence would undoubtedly elevate the team’s commercial appeal and fan engagement. 

With LAFC currently sitting fifth in the Western Conference standings, the addition of a high-profile player like Son could transform them into genuine contenders for the MLS Cup.

A Stellar Career Still Missing Major Silverware

Son Heung-min has made 454 appearances for Tottenham, scoring 173 goals and providing 101 assists across all competitions. 

He formed a prolific partnership with Harry Kane, but the duo never managed to secure major honors with the club. Their closest attempts came during the 2016–2017 Premier League season, where Spurs finished as runners-up, and the 2019 UEFA Champions League final.

Now, as a new chapter in Son’s illustrious career looms, the spotlight is firmly on whether he will embrace the bright lights of the Saudi Pro League or the growing allure of American soccer with LAFC.