FC Cincinnati have seemingly found their star number nine after completing a record-breaking deal for Cercle Brugge forward Kevin Denkey. The Ohio club reportedly spent up to $17.5 million on the 23-year-old Togolese striker, making it the most expensive deal in MLS history.
Denkey will officially join the club as a Designated Player when the MLS Primary Transfer Window opens in 2025 and has been signed to a contract through 2028, with a club option for 2029. This strategic move reflects FC Cincinnati’s ambition to solidify their attack and make a serious push for championship glory in the coming seasons.
Atlanta United previously held the all-time transfer record after signing Thiago Almada for $16 million from Club Atletico Velez Sarsfield in 2022. By surpassing that mark, FC Cincinnati not only demonstrates their commitment to progress but also sets a new benchmark for player investments in Major League Soccer.
Denkey expressed his enthusiasm about the move by saying, “This choice was natural for me. It felt like the club really wanted me and I can really help the team. I just had this good feeling. So for all of us it just made sense.” His confidence in the team is evident as he elaborated on the project presented to him, emphasizing the vision that FC Cincinnati has for the future.
He mentioned, “FC Cincinnati explained the project to me, and it was a big project. I went there, I saw a game, I saw the stadium, I saw everything, the facilities. And I said ‘This is incredible. This is amazing.’ I wanted to go to another step in my career and I think I can have it in Cincinnati.” This level of excitement from Denkey could translate into a profound impact on the field, as he aims to elevate the club’s performance.
Denkey recorded 11 goals and six assists in all competitions so far in the 2024/25 campaign after a breakout 2023/24 season in which he bagged an impressive 28 goals in 39 games. His remarkable scoring ability and playmaking skills are expected to fill the gap left by Cincinnati’s previous struggles during the playoffs. Cincinnati were among the favorites to reach the MLS Cup Final in the 2024 season, but unfortunately, Pat Noonan’s side were bounced out of the playoffs in the opening round by NYCFC. The lack of a true number nine was glaring in their postseason failure, highlighting the need for a dynamic forward like Denkey.
In response to this significant addition, General Manager Chris Albright expressed his elation, stating, “We’re thrilled to welcome Kévin to FC Cincinnati. He is a talented, young striker, with exceptional character. Kévin has been one of the most productive forwards in Europe over the last two years, showcasing elite physicality, finishing ability, and work ethic.” Albright’s words resonate with the high expectations surrounding Denkey and underscore the faith the organization has in his potential.
He further articulated the importance of this signing, saying, “This is a historic transfer for our club and our league, and it’s a tremendous credit to our ownership group, which continues to invest in this club’s ambition to compete for trophies.” With this ambitious signing, FC Cincinnati aims to not just compete but also thrive in the league, signaling a new era for the club and its supporters. The coming seasons hold a promising outlook, and fans will eagerly anticipate Denkey’s debut and the impact he will make on the pitch.
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