Cercle Brugge Star Nears €15m Transfer to MLS

Denkey, who has been in sensational form this season, was previously linked with a summer move to AS Monaco, Cercle Brugge’s affiliate club. More recently, speculation of a transfer to Lille OSC gained traction, as reported by journalist Sacha Tavolieri. However, the latest updates suggest the forward is poised for a surprising switch to the MLS.

In a pre-match update, Cercle Brugge’s social media announcement confirmed that Denkey had been granted permission to engage in talks about a potential move, which required his “physical presence”. This sparked initial rumours of a trip to Lille, but fresh reports from Nieuwsblad Sport now confirm an agreement with FC Cincinnati.

According to Het Laatste Nieuws, FC Cincinnati are prepared to pay over €14m for Denkey, a sum that will help Cercle Brugge invest in a new training centre and bolster their squad with a striker and defender. The Belgian club is negotiating to keep Denkey until the season’s end, ensuring his contribution during their campaign. Final details of the transfer are still being ironed out, including the player’s personal terms.

Site Opinion

From a footballing perspective, this potential transfer represents a massive leap for both Kévin Denkey and FC Cincinnati. The Togolese forward has been a standout player in the Belgian Pro League, and his move to MLS highlights the league’s growing appeal as a destination for young, talented international stars. If Cincinnati can finalise the deal and secure Denkey’s services, it would be a marquee signing for the club.

However, Cercle Brugge face the challenge of replacing their talisman striker in the long term. While the €15m fee is a significant windfall for the club, finding a forward who can replicate Denkey’s impact will not be easy. The Belgian side must strike a balance between reinvesting in their squad and maintaining their competitiveness in the league.