Son Heung-min’s Possible European Return via Special Clause
Son Heung-min’s MLS Journey and Stellar Performance
Son Heung-min, the celebrated South Korean forward, made headlines across the football world when he left Tottenham Hotspur at the conclusion of the 2024-25 season to join Los Angeles FC in Major League Soccer (MLS). His decision surprised many, especially given the lucrative offers he reportedly received from top European and Saudi Arabian clubs. Yet, Son’s move to LAFC was driven by a desire for a new challenge and the appeal of the American league.
Since arriving in the United States, Son has made a remarkable impact. In just nine appearances for LAFC, he has scored eight goals and provided three assists, instantly becoming a key figure in the squad. His performances have not only elevated LAFC’s status as a genuine title contender but have also reignited conversations about his enduring quality at the highest level of club football.
The Beckham Clause: A Unique Contractual Provision
Recent reports from October 19, 2025, have brought to light a fascinating detail in Son’s MLS contract: a special provision known as the “David Beckham clause.” This clause, inspired by the arrangement that once allowed David Beckham to temporarily return to Europe during the MLS offseason, could enable Son to make a short-term move back to European football.
The rationale behind this clause is clear. With the 2026 FIFA World Cup on the horizon, Son is keen to maintain his match sharpness and competitive edge. The MLS season does not run parallel to the major European leagues, creating a substantial offseason window that could be used for a loan spell in Europe. This arrangement would allow Son to remain in peak condition for international duty with South Korea, while also offering European clubs the chance to benefit from his experience and quality for a limited period.
European Interest: AC Milan and Tottenham in the Mix
The possibility of Son’s temporary return to Europe has not gone unnoticed by major clubs. According to several credible sources, AC Milan is among the frontrunners considering a move for the 33-year-old forward. The Italian giants have previously utilized a similar clause with David Beckham, who joined them on loan from LA Galaxy during the MLS offseason in 2009 and 2010, making the logistics of such a deal familiar territory for the club.
In addition to AC Milan, speculation is mounting about a potential short-term reunion with his former club, Tottenham Hotspur. Son’s legacy at Tottenham is well-established, and a return, even on a temporary basis, would be warmly welcomed by fans and could provide a significant boost to the club’s attacking options during a crucial phase of the European season.
Motivations Behind Son’s European Ambitions
Son’s interest in a European return is not solely about club success. With the 2026 World Cup approaching, his primary motivation is to stay at the top of his game for the South Korean national team. Playing in Europe’s highly competitive environment, even for a brief period, would offer invaluable preparation for the global stage.
Furthermore, Son’s professionalism and commitment to his national team have always been evident throughout his career. His willingness to seek out opportunities that enhance his performance for South Korea underscores his role as a leader and inspiration for his teammates and fans alike.
Implications for LAFC and MLS
For Los Angeles FC, Son’s presence has already proven transformative. His leadership, technical ability, and experience have galvanized the squad, raising the club’s profile both domestically and internationally. While a temporary departure would be a short-term loss, the long-term benefits could be significant. Allowing Son to pursue a European loan could strengthen the club’s reputation as a player-friendly destination and attract more high-profile signings in the future.
Moreover, the use of such clauses could become more common as MLS continues to attract top international talent. Providing players with the flexibility to maintain elite performance levels and fulfill international commitments may prove to be a significant draw for the league.
What Happens Next?
As the MLS offseason approaches, the football world will be watching closely to see whether Son Heung-min exercises the Beckham clause in his contract. If he does, it could set a new precedent for future MLS signings, offering a blueprint for how the league can coexist with the demands of the international game and the ambitions of its star players.
For now, both AC Milan and Tottenham Hotspur remain closely linked with Son’s potential European return. Negotiations and discussions will likely intensify in the coming weeks as clubs look to reinforce their squads for the second half of the European season.
Conclusion: A Story to Watch in World Football
Son Heung-min’s journey from the Premier League to MLS and his potential return to Europe via a unique contractual clause is a testament to his enduring quality and the evolving landscape of global football. Whether he returns to AC Milan, Tottenham, or another European club, his story continues to captivate fans and pundits alike. The coming months promise to bring further developments as one of Asia’s greatest footballers navigates the next chapter of his illustrious career.
Sources:
The Guardian
ESPN
BBC Sport