Captain Cameroon on the Brink of Persepolis Move
Tehran – In a significant development for the Iranian football scene, Persepolis FC is reportedly in advanced negotiations to secure the signature of Vincent Aboubakar, the esteemed captain of the Cameroon national team. This potential acquisition marks a major coup for the Tehran-based club as it seeks to bolster its attacking options for the upcoming season.
A Deal in the Final Stages
Following the departures of Issa Alekasir and Sardar Azmoun, and under the strategic guidance of manager Vahid Hashemian, the club has been meticulously searching for a high-impact striker. After evaluating numerous candidates, the focus has narrowed to the Cameroonian international. Initial agreements are understood to be in place, with talks now entering their conclusive phase.
A Captain’s Pedigree
Aboubakar, 32, is a figure of immense stature in African football. He has captained the “Indomitable Lions” of Cameroon since 2015 and brings a wealth of experience, including participation in three FIFA World Cup tournaments, with a potential fourth on the horizon. His international record is formidable, boasting 44 goals in 104 appearances for his country—a testament to his consistent performance at the highest level.
A Decorated Career Across Continents
The striker’s club career is equally impressive, featuring spells with European powerhouses FC Porto and Beşiktaş, as well as stints at Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia and Hatayspor in Turkey. His trophy cabinet includes nine major club titles from his time in Portugal and Turkey, complemented by an Africa Cup of Nations victory with Cameroon in 2017, where he also claimed the tournament’s Golden Boot in 2022.
Aboubakar has proven his goal-scoring prowess on the most demanding stages. In UEFA Champions League competition, he has netted 14 goals and provided 3 assists in 23 matches, further adding 10 goals across the Europa and Conference Leagues.
His statistical record across top leagues underscores his reliability:
- France: 26 goals, 17 assists in 109 games
- Portugal: 36 goals, 10 assists in 83 games
- Turkey: 52 goals, 14 assists in 116 games
- Saudi Arabia: 12 goals, 4 assists in 34 games
With over 215 career goals at the club and international level combined, his scoring instinct is undeniable.
Strategic Fit for Persepolis
While his 184cm frame may not perfectly match the initial profile of a “target man” sought by the club, Aboubakar’s exceptional football intelligence, clinical finishing, and vast international experience have positioned him as the prime candidate. His potential arrival is anticipated to bring not only goals but also invaluable leadership to the Persepolis squad.
All eyes are now on the coming week to see if the Cameroonian captain will finalize his move to Tehran, fulfilling the club’s promise of a major signing, or if Persepolis will pivot to an alternative option at the final hour.