'It will translate into an uptick of interest' - USMNT icon Alexi Lalas endorses Son Heung-min's potential LAFC move as a transformative signing for MLS

USMNT icon and former MLS GM Alexi Lalas endorsed Son Heung-min's potential move to Los Angeles FC saying the South Korean star would immediately rank among the most consequential signings in league history. Lalas also cited his experience with Korean football pioneer Hong Myung-bo to underscore Son's cultural significance.

“So I think that this certainly has the potential on the field to pay dividends for LAFC and off the field from a marketing perspective," Lalas said on hisState of the Union podcast. "Whether it's the name recognition that he has, especially relative to the EPL and Spurs, or whether it's the international global recognition that he has. And then obviously the Korean community that exists here, I think it will translate into an uptick of interest."

The Fox Sports analyst projected substantial benefits for LAFC extending beyond match performances, suggesting Son's arrival would generate significant commercial opportunities through enhanced global visibility and expanded business partnerships.

“I think it will translate into an uptick when it comes to the business and the sponsors and the partners, partners that they have,” Lalas explained. “So, I'm having a hard time finding anything wrong with this and I don't want to find anything wrong with this. So, I think it's a great signing. I'm glad that he's coming to a place like LA. It's not Messi-esque, but I do think that it can have an impact on and off the field.”

Son's impending arrival follows his emotional departure from Tottenham Hotspur after winning the UEFA Europa League title with the London club just three months ago. He has spent 10 years at the club after signing in the summer of 2015, making 325 appearances, scoring 119 goals and 59 assists.

Son is expected to occupy the Designated Player roster position vacated by Olivier Giroud, who recently departed LAFC for Lille in France. The 33-year-old is set to sign for a reported fee of $20-$26 million with a verbal agreement in place, according to GiveMeSport.