Chicago Fire Transfer Hugo Cuypers to CF Monterrey in $7.5 Million Deal

The Chicago Fire have transferred star striker Hugo Cuypers to Liga MX side CF Monterrey for a multi-million dollar fee, the MLS club confirmed Thursday.

Cuypers, 29, moves for a reported $7.5 million base fee plus $500,000 in potential add-ons, according to The Athletic. The departure frees up a Designated Player slot on Chicago’s roster.

“My time in Chicago is one that I will always treasure,” Cuypers said in a club statement. “Since arriving in 2024, the city has become a second home for me and my family.

“I would like to thank the club, the staff, and especially the fans for their unwavering support. I look forward to cheering the team on from afar and wish my teammates nothing but the best.”

Named to the 2026 MLS All-Star Game, Cuypers has netted 13 goals this season, tying FC Dallas forward Petar Musa for the league lead. He also set a franchise record by scoring in 10 consecutive appearances earlier this campaign.

Since joining from Belgian side K.A.A. Gent in February 2024 for a reported $12 million, the Belgian international tallied 40 goals across 75 matches for the Fire.

Chicago moved quickly to secure a high-profile replacement, signing Polish veteran Robert Lewandowski as a free agent in late June. The former Borussia Dortmund, Bayern Munich, and FC Barcelona star made his Fire debut on Wednesday.

“We are incredibly grateful to Hugo for everything he has given this club, both on and off the field,” said Chicago director of football and head coach Gregg Berhalter. “He is an outstanding professional, a valued teammate, and someone who has made a lasting impact on our group. We wish Hugo and his family nothing but success in this next chapter.

“While these decisions are never easy, this was the right move for both Hugo and the club,” Berhalter added. “With his contract nearing its end, we felt this was the appropriate moment to maximize the opportunity, create greater roster flexibility, and continue investing in the squad to build a competitive roster now and in the years ahead.”

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