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The Chicago Fire sent star striker Hugo Cuypers to CF Monterrey of Liga MX for a multimillion-dollar transfer fee, the MLS club announced Thursday.
Cuypers, 29, departed for a $7.5 million transfer fee plus $500,000 in add-ons, according to The Athletic. The Belgian’s exit opens a designated player roster spot.
“My time in Chicago is one that I will always treasure,” Cuypers said in a statement released by the team. “Since arriving here in 2024, the city has become a second home for me and my family.
“I would like to thank the club and staff and especially the fans for their unwavering support. I look forward to cheering the team from afar and wish my teammates nothing but the best.”
Named to the 2026 MLS All-Star Game, Cuypers has scored 13 goals this season, tied for the league lead with Petar Musa of FC Dallas. He established a Fire record this campaign by scoring in 10 consecutive matches in which he played.
Cuypers amassed 40 goals in 75 matches for the Fire since being acquired for a reported $12 million fee from Belgian first division side K.A.A. Gent in February 2024.
Chicago signed Polish free agent striker Robert Lewandowski in late June. The former star for Borussia Dortmund, Bayern Munich and FC Barcelona 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,” Chicago director of football and head coach Gregg Berhalter said in the team’s news release. “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 continued. “With his contract nearing its end, we felt this was the right 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.”
–Field Level Media
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