The MLS continues to attract top international talent that once starred in Europe. Lionel Messi’s arrival at Inter Miami opened the door for other marquee signings, including Luis Suarez, Jordi Alba, Sergio Busquets, Marco Reus, Hugo Lloris, and most recently Rodrigo De Paul. The next big name expected to join that list is Tottenham’s Son Heung–min, who is reportedly close to finalizing a move to LAFC.
The South Korean forward announced in an emotional press conference on Saturday, August 2, that he would be leaving Tottenham after a decade with the Premier League club. Widely regarded as one of the best Asian players in league history and a Spurs icon, Son helped the team capture its first UEFA Europa League title.
Despite receiving offers to remain in Europe or make a lucrative move to Saudi Arabia, Son appears set on heading to MLS, where he would join Messi and Suarez among the league’s most recognizable stars.
To secure his signature, LAFC will need to make a significant financial commitment — not only negotiating a transfer fee with Spurs but also offering a competitive contract. Son currently earns roughly $12 million gross annually in England, per Capology, and reports indicate the potential transfer fee could range between $20 million and $26 million.
Son Heung-Min lifts the UEFA Europa League trophy after his team’s victory in the UEFA Europa League Final 2025 against Man United. (Michael Steele/Getty Images)
Comparing Messi and Son’s earnings
According to official league data, Lionel Messi remains the highest-paid player in Major League Soccer. The Inter Miami star earns $12 million per season in base salary, with his total compensation rising to around $20 million when endorsements and other agreements are included.
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While Son Heung-min’s salary at LAFC has not been finalized, reports from Tom Bogert and Ben Jacobs of GiveMeSport indicate he is expected to earn similar to what he earned at Tottenham, approximately £9.88 million annually — about $13 million USD.
If finalized, Son would become one of the league’s top earners, surpassing Inter Miami midfielder Sergio Busquets, who ranks second by earning $8,774,996 according to the MLSPA’s 2024 salary guide.
