Son Heung-Min Can Return to Premier League by Triggering 'David Beckham Clause'

Son Heung-min could follow in the footsteps of David Beckham and Thierry Henry after a clause was inserted into his Los Angeles FC contract ahead next summer's World Cup, according to reports.

The 33-year-old became the most expensive player in MLS history in August, when he joined LAFC from Tottenham for a reported $26 million.

Speaking to the media at an introductory press conference, Son gave an insight into his decision.

“There are many reasons why LAFC and LA was the location for me,” he said. “As a Korean, to know that Koreatown here in Los Angeles has so many Koreans here in this country. I'm very proud to be a part of the club and the city here."

Son added: “I've obviously played with former teammates like Hugo Lloris, Gareth Bale and a national team player that I know, Kim Moon-hwan, also played for the club. The conversations that I've had with them were great, and also Hugo was helping and advising about how great Los Angeles is.”

He has since hit the ground running in Los Angeles, notching eight goals and three assists in his opening nine games, with Steve Cherundolo's side recently securing their place in the MLS Cup play-offs.

The play-offs are scheduled to begin on October 22 and conclude with MLS Cup 2025 on December 6

Once they are over, Son could potentially make a return to Europe on a short-term loan, according to The Sun, who claim a clause was inserted into his contract at LAFC that would allow him to play elsewhere.

The report suggests that the upcoming World Cup in mid-2026 could influence how Son uses the off-season period as he decides how to prepare for next summer's tournament with South Korea.

If he decides to join a European club, the former Spurs forward would follow in the footsteps of David Beckham, who joined Serie A giants AC Milan during the MLS off-season in January 2010.

Thierry Henry also had a similar arrangement in his deal with the New York Red Bulls. Of course, the Frenchman made a memorable return to Arsenal in January 2012, where he joined on a two-month loan deal.

Son Heung-min must follow strict MLS rule that only Lionel Messi is exempt from

Since his much-anticipated arrival, Son has complied with MLS rules that state players must be available to conduct post-match interviews with the league's media team or broadcast partner Apple TV.

In fact, players must be made available for 15 minutes each for content opportunities and interviews.

Son Heung-min has made an instant impact at LAFC. Image credit: Getty

Lionel Messi, however, is exempt from the MLS regulations. The Argentine and his representation have their own arrangement with the league and Inter Miami, though the full details of this arrangement remain unclear.