Deni Buanga (31), who had been shaken by transfer rumors, will ultimately continue with LAFC. The "Heungbu duo" he formed with Son Heung-min will also continue.
LAFC announced on the 26th (Korea time) through the club's official channel that "the club has re-signed forward Buanga as a Designated Player through 2028. The contract includes an extension option through the 2030 season." It is a contract that reflects the club's intention to secure a key attacking resource long term.
Since joining LAFC in 2022, Buanga has established himself as an emblematic player for the team. After playing for AS Saint-Étienne in France's Ligue 1, he challenged the U.S. stage and from his first season scored decisive goals, contributing to the Supporters' Shield and MLS Cup victories. Since then he has consistently shown explosive attacking power and has been regarded as one of MLS's top forwards.
In the 2023 season he won the Golden Boot with 20 goals and seven assists in 31 regular-season matches, and was named a finalist for MLS MVP and to the All-Star team. Including cup competitions he piled up 38 goals and 14 assists, earning a spot on the Champions Cup best XI and the MLS best XI simultaneously. In 2024 he recorded 20 goals and 11 assists and was named an All-Star for the second consecutive season, and in 2025 he broke the club's all-time scoring record.
In last winter's transfer market, Inter Miami and Fluminense attempted to sign him, unsettling his whereabouts. Inter Miami reportedly made an offer of about $13 million, and Fluminense is also said to have offered $15 million. LAFC rejected all offers and made clear their intention for him to remain. Buanga expressed regret over the failed transfers on social media, sparking controversy, but ultimately the matter was closed with a contract renewal.
The synergy with Son Heung-min is also an important background to this contract. Since Son Heung-min joined in mid-2025, the two players emerged as the most threatening attacking combination in MLS. Since joining they have combined for 25 goals and eight assists, set a league record with goals combined in 18 consecutive matches, and led LAFC's rising momentum. The club called the two players "one of the deadliest duos in football."
On his feelings about the contract renewal, Buanga said, "I am grateful for the trust LAFC has shown. Los Angeles feels like home to me. It is always an honor to wear this uniform and represent the fans and the club," adding, "I will do my best to improve, lift more trophies and help the team rise to greater heights."
Co-chairman and Director General John Thorrington also said, "From the day he joined, Buanga has shown historic consistency and top-level performance. He played a decisive role in several championships. This contract reflects his value."
With Buanga choosing to remain and putting transfer rumors behind him, attention is focused on what level of destructive power the "Heungbu duo" of Buanga and Son Heung-min will show in the new season.
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