Socceroos teenager’s $33m deal sets stage for dream Premier League debut

Teenager Lucas Herrington will be the only Socceroo in England’s Premier League this season after signing a five-year deal with Hull City for what’s believed to be a record transfer fee for an Australian player.

The central defender had been the subject of interest from a raft of European clubs, including powerhouses Barcelona and Liverpool, since before the World Cup.

The 18-year-old’s stunning start to life as a Socceroo and his impressive debut World Cup only ramped up interest.

It was confirmed on Wednesday (Thursday morning, AEST) that Herrington has signed with Hull City, joining the newly promoted English club from US team Colorado Rapids.

While the fee was undisclosed, it’s understood to be about $33 million, surpassing Harry Souttar’s $23m move to Leicester City in 2023 as a record for an Australian player.

“I’m buzzing to be here. It’s a great project and a great club to be a part of,” Herrington said in a statement.

“The opportunity to play in the Premier League, one of the best leagues in the world, is a dream come true.

“I’ve woken up at all hours in the morning in Australia to watch these games. To be a part of it is so special.

“I can’t wait to meet all the boys and the fans. I’m here to work hard and hopefully get a lot of games in the Premier League.”

The English club was quick to sing Herrington’s praises.

“Hull City are delighted to announce the signing of Australia defender Lucas Herrington from Major League Soccer side Colorado Rapids,” Hull City said in a statement.

Herrington said he can’t wait to play his first game for Hull City, who kick off their Premier League campaign with a home game against English heavyweights Manchester United on August 22.

He has also turned to fellow Socceroo Jackson Irvine for some advice, the Australian having played 112 games for Hull between 2017 and 2020, scoring 10 goals along the way.

“I spoke to ‘Jacko’ (Irvine), and he said very good things about the club and the area,” Herrington said.

“He loved his time here. To hear that from him, after being with him at the World Cup, gave me a sense of calmness.

“It was a dream come true to represent my country at the World Cup - something I had always wanted to do. To achieve it at 18 was so special, and to have my family in the stands meant everything to me.

“I’m really looking forward to the first game against Manchester United. I can’t wait to get started.”

Herrington quickly rose to prominence after making his A-League debut for the Brisbane Roar in 2024.

The Brisbane-born defender played 29 games for the Roar before signing with the Colorado Rapids in 2025. He debuted for the Rapids this year and played 20 games before signing with Hull City.