Lionel Messi, David Beckham, and Zlatan Ibrahimovic are prominent figures in the world of soccer. While they are celebrated as some of the biggest signings in Major League Soccer (MLS), they are not associated with the highest transfer fees.
Currently leading in transfer fees is Heungmin Son, who recently transferred to LAFC from Tottenham Hotspur for a reported fee of $26 million.
Interestingly, international stars like Messi and Beckham joined MLS on free transfers, while Son represents one of the highest transfer deals in the league’s history, with Messi earning $20 million per season.
Let’s delve into two lists: one highlighting the highest transfer fees in MLS and another showcasing the most significant international stars in league history.
1. Son Heung-min: Tottenham Hotspur to LAFC (2025)
Reported fee: $26 million
Having departed the Premier League, Son is lauded as a key figure who helped Spurs claim victory in the 2024-25 Europa League, ending a 17-year trophy drought. With 173 goals and 101 assists across 454 appearances for Tottenham, he is set to be a star for South Korea in the upcoming 2026 World Cup.
2. Emmanuel Latte Lath: Middlesbrough to Atlanta United (2025)
Reported fee: $22 million
Latte Lath, while not as widely known, has made a significant impact in the English Championship with 29 goals in 67 appearances prior to his transfer to Atlanta. The Ivorian has already contributed six goals in 20 matches for his new club, showcasing Atlanta’s eagerness to invest in top talent.
Before Son Heung-Min’s move to LAFC, Emmanuel Latte Lath held the record for the highest transfer fee to MLS. (Photo: Kevin C. Cox -Leagues Cup/MLS Getty Images)
3. Kevin Denki: Circle Brugge to FC Cincinnati (2024)
Reported fee: $16.2 million
Denki enjoyed a successful debut season with Cincinnati, scoring 12 goals in 20 matches. He is expected to be crucial for a team that aims to compete for the MLS Cup, supported by standout teammate Evander, whose transfer fee of $13.3 million was the highest within the league in 2025.
4. Thiago Almada: Velez Sarsfield to Atlanta United (2022)
Reported fee: $16 million
Almada, an Argentine talent, has made his mark after joining Atlanta United, becoming the first MLS player to win a World Cup. He later moved to Brazil and recently signed with Atletico Madrid after a brief stop in Lyon.
Thiago Almada became a World Cup winner while with Atlanta United. (Photo by Matias Baglietto/Nurphoto)
5. Gonzalo “Pity” Martinez: River Plate to Atlanta United (2019)
Reported fee: $14 million
Martinez was anticipated to shine after his success with River Plate but struggled in Atlanta before moving to Al Nassr in 2020.
Top 5 Most Impactful MLS Signings
Let’s now consider the high-profile players who left a lasting impact on MLS. All of these players were designated players, meaning their salaries exceeded the league’s salary cap. This rule was introduced in 2007 alongside Beckham’s arrival to allow clubs to attract high-caliber talent.
1. Lionel Messi: Inter Miami (2023-present)
A player of the generation, Messi joined Inter Miami following his World Cup victory. After achieving fame in Qatar, he chose to take on the challenge of MLS with Beckham’s co-owned club, immediately making an impact with 58 goals in 70 matches and securing two trophies. With Messi on their roster, Miami is a strong contender for the MLS Cup.
2. David Beckham: LA Galaxy (2007-2012)
Beckham’s surprising move from Real Madrid to MLS elevated the league’s profile. Beyond being a celebrity, he was a winner who claimed various titles in Europe and helped Galaxy to consecutive MLS Cup titles in 2011-2012. His agreement included a provision to set up a franchise, later resulting in Inter Miami’s formation, where he and Messi now intersect.
David Beckham and Lionel Messi celebrate after Inter Miami’s League Cup win in 2023. (Photo: Tim Nuwachuk/Getty Images)
3. Zlatan Ibrahimovic: LA Galaxy (2018-19)
Ibrahimovic’s entrance into MLS was marked by his cocky statement in the Los Angeles Times, proclaiming, “Dear Los Angeles, you’re welcome.” With a rich career in Europe, he continued to shine in MLS for two seasons before rejoining European football.
Zlatan Ibrahimovic made a remarkable impact during his time with the Galaxy. (Photo: Shaun Clark/Getty Images)
4. Thierry Henry: New York Red Bulls (2010-2014)
Following Beckham, Henry was another significant European superstar to join MLS. The French forward enjoyed a stellar career with Arsenal and Barcelona before making his mark in New Jersey, capturing the attention of fans with his incredible skill set.
Thierry Henry was a marquee signing for MLS after a storied European career. (Photo: Andy Marlin/Getty Images)
5. David Villa: NYCFC (2015-18)
Villa, a World Cup winner with Spain, ended his illustrious European career with notable achievements in La Liga and the Champions League. He was a key player for NYCFC, contributing significantly alongside other high-profile teammates and earning All-Star honors during his time in the league.
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Fan Take: The influx of top-tier talent like Heungmin Son and the continued legacy of icons like Messi and Beckham highlight the growing allure of MLS. This trend not only elevates the league’s competitive edge but also draws in a broader international audience, significantly impacting the future of soccer in the U.S.
