Apr 18, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Fireplace FC ahead Hugo Cuypers (9) (heart) dribbles ahead through the second half of an MLS match towards FC Cincinnati at TQL Stadium. Obligatory Credit score: Kareem Elgazzar-Imagn Photos The Chicago Fireplace despatched star striker Hugo Cuypers to CF Monterrey of Liga MX for a multimillion-dollar switch price, the MLS membership introduced Thursday.
Cuypers, 29, departed for a $7.5 million switch price plus $500,000 in add-ons, in keeping with The Athletic. The Belgian’s exit opens a delegated participant roster spot.
“My time in Chicago is one which I’ll at all times treasure,” Cuypers mentioned in an announcement launched by the staff. “Since arriving right here in 2024, the town has grow to be a second dwelling for me and my household.
“I want to thank the membership and employees and particularly the followers for his or her unwavering assist. I look ahead to cheering the staff from afar and want my teammates nothing however the very best.”
Named to the 2026 MLS All-Star Sport, Cuypers has scored 13 objectives this season, tied for the league lead with Petar Musa of FC Dallas. He established a Fireplace document this marketing campaign by scoring in 10 consecutive matches by which he performed.
Cuypers amassed 40 objectives in 75 matches for the Fireplace since being acquired for a reported $12 million price from Belgian first division aspect Okay.A.A. Gent in February 2024.
Chicago signed Polish free agent striker Robert Lewandowski in late June. The previous star for Borussia Dortmund, Bayern Munich and FC Barcelona made his Fireplace debut on Wednesday.
“We’re extremely grateful to Hugo for the whole lot he has given this membership, each on and off the sphere,” Chicago director of soccer and head coach Gregg Berhalter mentioned within the staff’s information launch. “He’s an excellent skilled, a valued teammate and somebody who has made a long-lasting impression on our group. We want Hugo and his household nothing however success on this subsequent chapter.
“Whereas these choices are by no means simple, this was the suitable transfer for each Hugo and the membership,” Berhalter continued. “Together with his contract nearing its finish, we felt this was the suitable second to maximise the chance, create better roster flexibility and proceed investing within the squad to construct a aggressive roster now and within the years forward.”
–Subject Degree Media
