Captain Cameroon: Vincent Aboubakar Nears Historic Move to Persepolis
Tehran Pursues Footballing Royalty
In a significant development for Iranian football, Persepolis FC is on the verge of securing one of its most high-profile international signings to date. Following the departures of Issa Alekasir and Sardar Azmoun, and under the strategic guidance of manager Vahid Hashemian, the club has been seeking a world-class striker to lead its frontline. After evaluating numerous candidates, the Reds are now in advanced negotiations with Vincent Aboubakar, the iconic captain of the Cameroon national team.
A Deal in the Final Stages
Preliminary agreements have been reached, and discussions are entering their final, critical phase. Aboubakar, a figure of immense stature in African football, has captained the Indomitable Lions since 2015. His career is decorated with experience from three FIFA World Cup tournaments, and he is expected to feature prominently for Cameroon in the upcoming international fixtures.
A Stellar Career of Achievement
The 32-year-old striker boasts an impressive resume, having played for European powerhouses such as FC Porto and Beşiktaş, as well as Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia and Hatayspor in Turkey. His individual brilliance was recognized in 2022 when he clinched the top scorer award in the Africa Cup of Nations.
With 104 international caps and 44 goals for his country, Aboubakar has cemented a legendary status in Cameroonian football history. His club honors are equally formidable, including nine major trophies with Porto and Beşiktaş, complemented by his continental triumph with the national team. His prowess on the European stage is proven, with 14 goals in 23 UEFA Champions League appearances and an additional 10 goals across the Europa and Conference Leagues.
His consistent goal-scoring record across top leagues underscores his quality:
- France: 109 games, 26 goals, 17 assists
- Portugal: 83 games, 36 goals, 10 assists
- Turkey: 116 games, 52 goals, 14 assists
- Saudi Arabia (Al-Nassr): 34 games, 12 goals, 4 assists
This brings his total professional goal tally (club and country) to an remarkable 215.
A Strategic Acquisition for Persepolis
While his 184cm frame may not fit the traditional profile of a towering target man initially sought by Hashemian, Aboubakar’s exceptional football intelligence, clinical finishing, and vast international experience have made him the club’s primary target. His potential arrival is seen as a major coup, signaling Persepolis’s ambition to compete at the highest level.
The coming week is poised to be decisive. The club has promised a major announcement, and all eyes are now on whether this Cameroonian captain will finalize his move to Tehran or if the Reds will pivot to an alternative option at the final hour.
