Son Heung-min's MLS Transfer Rumors Spark Negative Reaction to Potential Tottenham Loan Return

Amidst rumors of Son Heung-min (LAFC) potentially returning to a European league on a short-term loan, Tottenham Hotspur fans are reacting negatively to the possibility of his return. Son Heung-min has a clause in his contract that allows him to sign a short-term deal with a European club after the MLS season ends, drawing much attention from soccer fans to his next destination.

Son Heung-min made a successful debut in the MLS with LAFC, recording 9 goals and 2 assists in 11 games. He won the MLS 'Goal of the Year' award and was a finalist for the 'Newcomer of the Year' award. Son Heung-min's contract is known to include a special clause allowing him to sign a short-term contract with a European club during the MLS offseason.

If Son Heung-min actually pursues a short-term loan return to Europe, AC Milan, Tottenham Hotspur, and Bayern Munich are being mentioned as likely destinations. In particular, Son Heung-min once said, "My last Tottenham game was in Korea, so I want to go back to London and meet the Tottenham fans," adding weight to rumors of his return to Tottenham.

Tottenham fans are reacting negatively to Son Heung-min's return. Fans are worried about changes in Son Heung-min's skills and are questioning the impact his return would have on the team.

In the past, David Beckham left LA Galaxy for AC Milan on loan after the season ended. Thierry Henry also briefly transferred from the New York Red Bulls to Arsenal. It remains to be seen whether Son Heung-min can continue his career in Europe by utilizing the MLS offseason like these players.

On November 2, 2025, a Spanish media outlet reported that Barcelona was pushing for a short-term loan for Son Heung-min, further heightening interest in Son Heung-min's destination. Barcelona reportedly believes that Son Heung-min's addition would greatly contribute to strengthening the team's attack and is actively working to sign him.

Jermain Defoe, who previously played for Tottenham, joined Tottenham on loan from MLS Toronto FC in January 2014. Defoe scored 4 goals in 18 Premier League games at the time. Robbie Keane also moved on loan from LA Galaxy to Aston Villa in January 2012 and scored 3 goals in 6 Premier League games.

Meanwhile, Tottenham Hotspur goalkeeper Alfie Whiteman has announced his retirement at the young age of 27. Whiteman will begin a new life as a video director and photographer. He lifted the UEFA Europa League trophy with Son Heung-min last season.

Whiteman joined the Tottenham Youth Academy at the age of 10 and grew into a professional player. His contract with Tottenham expired last May, and he made only one appearance for the Tottenham first team. Whiteman will end his short professional career and embark on a new field.

Tottenham fans are expressing negative opinions about Son Heung-min's return and are interested in developing young players for the future of the team. Some fans acknowledge Son Heung-min's experience but prioritize the development of young players from a long-term perspective.

Whether Son Heung-min will return to a European league on a short-term loan has not yet been confirmed. His choice could have a significant impact on European soccer and is attracting the attention of soccer fans around the world.