Hugo Cuypers transfer to Monterrey confirmed
According to News.
Context
Hugo Cuypers, 29, has made a name for himself in MLS as the league's top scorer, which has attracted the attention of several teams, including CF Monterrey. His transfer not only strengthens the Mexican team, but also reflects the growing interconnection between MLS and Liga MX, where prominent players are being increasingly sought after. Cuypers' departure from Chicago Fire, where he never had the chance to play alongside Lewandowski, marks a new phase in his career.
Why this matters
Hugo Cuypers' move to CF Monterrey represents a significant move in the transfer market, especially considering his remarkable performance in MLS, where he is the league's top goalscorer. His departure from the Chicago Fire, which recently signed Robert Lewandowski, highlights the dynamics of the teams in the search for reinforcements that can impact the next season. Cuypers, with 13 goals in just 989 minutes, is a valuable addition to the Mexican team as they look to strengthen their attack in Liga MX.
Main conclusions
- Hugo Cuypers' transfer to Monterrey confirmed.
- CF Monterrey are close to finalizing the transfer of MLS top scorer Hugo Cuypers from Chicago Fire for US$7.5 million, in a move that strengthens the Mexican team.
- Monterrey, Chicago transfer deal for MLS Golden Boot leader Hugo Cuypers: Sources - The Athletic.
CF Monterrey is about to close a deal to sign MLS top scorer Hugo Cuypers, who will transfer from the Chicago Fire for a fee of around US$7.5 million, with another US$500,000 in bonuses, according to sources close to the situation. Personal terms between Cuypers and Monterrey have already been agreed, which facilitates the player's transition to Mexican football.
Hugo Cuypers, 29, leads MLS in goals, scoring 13 times this season in just 989 minutes of play. His departure from the Chicago Fire comes a few weeks after the club announced the signing of legendary Polish striker Robert Lewandowski. Initially, the Fire believed they could both play together, and Cuypers even gave up his number 9 shirt to Lewandowski as a sign of respect. "Robert is one of the greatest strikers of all time, and it wouldn't make sense to see him playing with any other number. It was an easy decision for me to give him the shirt and I hope we can achieve many things together on the pitch," said Cuypers a few weeks ago.
Unfortunately for Cuypers, he will leave the club without ever having shared the pitch with Lewandowski. In addition to Monterrey, several other MLS clubs, including St. Louis City, have shown interest in the Belgian player. Monterrey had already made significant investments in MLS this season, having acquired Uruguayan Diego Rossi, a former Columbus Crew player.
The 2026-27 Liga MX season kicked off last weekend with Monterrey beating Santos Laguna 3-2. Cuypers joined the Chicago Fire for around $12 million before the start of the 2024 season, scoring 44 goals in all competitions, 34 of which came during the last 18 months under the guidance of coach and athletic director Gregg Berhalter.
With Cuypers gone, Inter Miami's Lionel Messi and FC Dallas' Petar Musa remain the league's top scorers, both with 12 goals. Cuypers' departure also opens up a spot on the MLS All-Star team, which will face a selection of Liga MX stars in Charlotte on July 29. The Chicago Fire, currently in third place in the Eastern Conference, continues its search for reinforcements, with German international Leon Goretzka on the list of targets for the transfer market.
What happens next
With Cuypers' transfer almost complete, he is set to join Monterrey before the start of the new Liga MX season. His addition to the team could be facilitated by Monterrey's recent investments in MLS players such as Diego Rossi. Furthermore, his experience in MLS could be an important asset in adapting to Mexican football, where expectations are high for new reinforcements.
Frequently asked questions
Who is Hugo Cuypers?
Hugo Cuypers is a Belgian football player, top scorer in MLS, who scored 13 goals this season.
Where is Hugo Cuypers transferring from?
Hugo Cuypers is transferring from Chicago Fire.
Why did Hugo Cuypers choose Monterrey?
Personal terms between Cuypers and Monterrey have already been agreed, facilitating the player's transition to Mexican football.
What is Cuypers' transfer fee?
The value of Hugo Cuypers' transfer to Monterrey is around US$7.5 million, with another US$500,000 in bonuses.
When will Cuypers' transfer be official?
Hugo Cuypers' transfer to Monterrey is about to be confirmed, but the exact date of officialization has not been mentioned.