Exclusive: LAFC, Tottenham in advanced talks over $20m fee for Son

Los Angeles FC are in advanced talks with Tottenham Hotspur over a deal in the ballpark of $20 million (£15 million) to sign Son Heung-min, sources tell GIVEMESPORT.

Spurs are hoping for $27 million (£20 million), but that is a drop in price from their original ask of around $40 million (£30 million) quoted to Saudi clubs.

An agreement on personal terms with the Spurs captain is almost in place, and the 33-year-old has already told LAFC he wants to join, sources say.

LAFC sent a delegation out to South Korea where Son is expected to play his final Spurs game against Newcastle United on August 3, a fixture in which he is contractually obligated to play as part of a commercial agreement.

A deal could be concluded quickly after August 3, sources say.

LAFC are hoping to agree a fee with Spurs of around $20 million, slightly below the MLS record $22 million plus add-ons package Atlanta United paid to Middlesbrough for striker Emmanuel Latte Lath this winter.

GMS understands the North London club are hoping for a figure closer to $27 million (£20 million) but will not stand in Son’s way, giving LAFC some optimism the final fee will be closer to the $20 million range.

Son also had an offer from Saudi Arabia but is prioritising Los Angeles after being sold on the football project. It is also understood LA’s thriving South Korean community was a factor in his thinking.

Son is set to become one of the best paid players in MLS, potentially surpassing the $8.7m salary paid to current third-higher earner Sergio Busquets.