Cameroonian striker Vincent Aboubakar completes surprise move to Neftçi FK

Cameroonian striker Vincent Aboubakar has completed a surprise transfer to Azerbaijani side Neftçi FK, where he received a hero’s welcome from hundreds of fans on his arrival in Baku.

The 33-year-old forward, a seasoned international with 115 caps and 45 goals for Cameroon, joins Neftçi as a free agent after finalising talks that had been delayed due to salary negotiations.

The deal, which runs until the end of the current season, was confirmed by the club over the weekend.

Aboubakar landed at Heydar Aliyev International Airport late on Saturday, where jubilant Neftçi supporters gathered to greet their new star.

The former Porto and Beşiktaş striker was visibly moved by the enthusiastic reception as fans chanted his name and waved club flags to celebrate his signing.

The transfer brings an unexpected twist to Aboubakar’s illustrious career, which has spanned across Europe and the Middle East.

Having represented clubs including Valenciennes, Lorient, Porto, Beşiktaş, Al-Nassr, and most recently Hatayspor, he arrives in Azerbaijan with a wealth of experience and a proven track record of scoring in top competitions.

Aboubakar, who famously captained Cameroon to victory at the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations, will wear the number 45 shirt for his new club.

He is expected to make his debut as early as Sunday, when Neftçi face Araz Nakhchivan in the eighth round of the Azerbaijani Premier League.

The club currently sits ninth in the Premyer Liqası table out of 12 teams and is hopeful that Aboubakar’s arrival will provide both leadership and attacking strength as they aim to climb the standings.

The move was confirmed after lengthy negotiations between the player’s representatives and Neftçi’s management.

Initial discussions had stalled due to financial terms, but both sides eventually reached an agreement that paved the way for the Cameroonian to sign his contract.

Aboubakar’s addition has been met with optimism among the Neftçi faithful, who see his arrival as a major boost to their ambitions.

His reputation as a prolific and passionate forward—combined with his extensive international and club experience—makes him one of the most high-profile signings in the Azerbaijani league in recent years.

As Neftçi FK prepares for the next phase of their campaign, the focus will now turn to whether Vincent Aboubakar can quickly adapt to his new surroundings and deliver the kind of performances that have defined his celebrated career.

Ooooo.. 🤫🤫🤫

1! 2! 3! 🔥

NEFTÇİ BAKI! ⚪️⚫️ pic.twitter.com/wQq0imZz1W

— Neftçi PFK (@PFC_Neftchi) October 18, 2025