The potential departure of Son Heung-min would represent a significant loss for Tottenham Hotspur, extending far beyond his contributions on the pitch.
According to a July 25 report from British media, including the Mirror, Los Angeles FC (LAFC) has submitted a £15 million bid to sign the Tottenham captain. Tottenham is reportedly seeking a transfer fee of up to £20 million and is willing to consider a sale for the right price, provided Son agrees to the move.
As the possibility of a transfer becomes more concrete, there is a growing sentiment in the UK that his exit would be a major blow. For eight consecutive seasons, Son has been a cornerstone of the team, scoring over 10 goals each year and leading the squad as its captain.
However, Son’s value to Tottenham transcends his athletic performance. The South Korean national team captain has driven immense commercial success for the club. A significant number of South Korean fans travel to London to watch his matches in person, and every Tottenham game is broadcast live in South Korea, generating substantial media rights revenue.
Regarded as one of the club’s most popular players, Son’s jersey sales have consistently ranked among the highest, rivaling those of former teammate Harry Kane. It is widely believed that if Son leaves, his dedicated South Korean fanbase will follow, as their allegiance is primarily to the player rather than the club itself.
The Daily Mail commented on this phenomenon, noting, “Son Heung-min’s influence at Tottenham is truly immense… If Son were to transfer, they would lose a huge Korean fanbase. In contrast, the team that signs him, LAFC, would hit the jackpot.”
Essentially, the lucrative “Son Heung-min effect” that Tottenham currently enjoys would transfer directly to LAFC. South Korean supporters would likely redirect their travels and spending from London to Los Angeles, trading their Tottenham kits for LAFC jerseys and shifting a significant revenue stream to the MLS club.
