Hugo Cuypers Completes Move to Monterrey as Chicago Fire Receive Transfer Fee Below Market Value
Chicago Fire have sold Major League Soccer Golden Boot leader Hugo Cuypers to Liga MX club Monterrey in a deal worth $7.5 million plus $500,000 in potential add-ons. The transfer fee is significantly lower than the €11m Chicago Fire paid KAA Gent for the player in 2024.
According to Chicago Fire director of football and head coach Gregg Berhalter, "these decisions are never easy, but this was the right move for both Hugo and the club." Berhalter cited the need to maximize the opportunity, create roster flexibility, and invest in the squad as key factors in the decision.
The move comes as a surprise, given the club's recent signing of Robert Lewandowski and their ambitions to challenge for a top spot in the MLS Cup Playoffs. Cuypers' departure means the planned strike partnership with Lewandowski will not come to fruition.
Cuypers, 29, has scored 44 goals and six assists in 82 games for Chicago Fire since joining in 2024. This season, he has scored 13 goals in 11 MLS regular-season games. In a statement, Cuypers expressed his gratitude to the club, staff, and fans, saying his time in Chicago would always be treasured. He will now continue his career in Mexico, where he is expected to receive a significant salary.
According to Chicago Fire director of football and head coach Gregg Berhalter, "these decisions are never easy, but this was the right move for both Hugo and the club." Berhalter cited the need to maximize the opportunity, create roster flexibility, and invest in the squad as key factors in the decision.
The move comes as a surprise, given the club's recent signing of Robert Lewandowski and their ambitions to challenge for a top spot in the MLS Cup Playoffs. Cuypers' departure means the planned strike partnership with Lewandowski will not come to fruition.
Cuypers, 29, has scored 44 goals and six assists in 82 games for Chicago Fire since joining in 2024. This season, he has scored 13 goals in 11 MLS regular-season games. In a statement, Cuypers expressed his gratitude to the club, staff, and fans, saying his time in Chicago would always be treasured. He will now continue his career in Mexico, where he is expected to receive a significant salary.
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