Vincent Aboubakar is in advanced negotiations to join Azerbaijani champions Qarabag FK, with the club looking to add the experienced Cameroonian forward to their squad ahead of the UEFA Champions League qualifiers.
The 33-year-old, currently a free agent following his departure from Turkish side Hatayspor, could be set for a surprising new chapter in his career. According to reports from Foot Africa, Qarabag are keen to bring in a high-profile player capable of bolstering their attacking line as they prepare for the second qualifying round of Europe’s elite competition.
Aboubakar, who captained Cameroon’s national team and has left a lasting impression across European and Turkish football, appears to fit the bill for the Baku-based club.
Renowned for his strength, sharp instincts in front of goal, and leadership on the pitch, he represents precisely the type of player Qarabag are hoping will guide them through the early stages of the Champions League.
Qarabag, who secured the Azerbaijani Premier League title in March, have built a reputation in recent seasons as a competitive side on the European stage, particularly in the UEFA Europa League.
As they set their sights on making an impact in the Champions League this year, club officials are prioritising experience and composure in their recruitment strategy — and Aboubakar’s profile aligns perfectly with those objectives.
Club insiders suggest the move would also provide tactical depth, especially with the expected departure of Algerian midfielder Yassine Benzia, whose contract is set to expire.
While not a direct positional replacement, Aboubakar would bring international pedigree and the type of presence Qarabag believe could make the difference in critical knockout ties.
Aboubakar’s most recent campaign in Türkiye was mixed but demonstrated he still possesses the physical and technical attributes to compete at a high level.
In 25 appearances for Hatayspor, he netted 7 goals and recorded 2 assists — solid numbers for a player adjusting back to the Süper Lig.
Despite this contribution, his time with the club came to an end in May, with both parties parting ways mutually.
His availability on a free transfer is proving to be a major asset in ongoing discussions. Given his track record — which includes stints at FC Porto, Beşiktaş, and Al Nassr, as well as standout performances for Cameroon at the Africa Cup of Nations and the World Cup — his arrival would be seen as a significant coup for the Azerbaijani side.
Qarabag are hoping to finalise the deal swiftly, with Champions League qualifiers approaching and squad registration deadlines looming. Talks are reportedly progressing well, and both sides are said to be optimistic about reaching an agreement in the coming days.
Should the move materialise, it would not only offer Aboubakar a return to European competition but also provide Qarabag with a proven performer capable of making an immediate impact.
As one of Africa’s most respected forwards over the past decade, his next destination could prove pivotal — both for his career and for the ambitions of a club seeking to make its mark on the continental stage.
