Hull FC target record $33m Socceroo teen as Premier League debut nears

Teenage Socceroo Lucas Herrington is on the verge of a move to Premier League club Hull City for a fee reported between AUD $35 million and $38 million, a sum that would eclipse the $23 million Australian transfer record set by Harry Souttar. The deal would make Herrington the most expensive Australian player ever and the sole Socceroo in the Premier League this season.

The report, filed by ANNA HARRINGTON FOR AUSTRALIAN ASSOCIATED PRESS, was published at 00:43 BST on 3 August 2026 and Updated at the same time, confirming the timing of the news.

Herrington, a composed central defender, has attracted interest from European clubs, including powerhouses Barcelona and Liverpool, since before the World Cup. His performances have kept him on the radar of top‑flight teams across the continent.

The 18‑year‑old’s stunning start to life as a Socceroo, highlighted by an impressive debut at the World Cup, has only ramped up interest. He even stepped up to take a penalty in the shoot‑out against Egypt, though the effort struck the crossbar as the Socceroos fell in the first knockout stage.

Hull City owner Acun Ilicali confirmed the newly‑promoted club’s interest to the BBC on Saturday. Asked if Herrington was someone Hull were looking at, Ilicali said: "Yes. He's (got) very big potential. Very young boy. I think (a) future star. We are very close, very close." When asked when a decision might be made, he added: "One week."

Herrington’s contract with MLS side Colorado Rapids runs until 2029 with an option for an additional year. He played a full match on Sunday in a 1‑0 win over Austin FC, which could be his final appearance for the Rapids, having also featured for the MLS All‑Star team earlier in the week.

If the transfer is completed, Hull City will secure a record signing that could boost their Premier League campaign, while Herrington will become the only Australian representative in the league and join fellow Socceroos Patrick Beach and Paul Okon‑Engstler in top‑five European leagues.