Veteran Ivorian right-back Serge Aurier is set to embark on a new chapter in his career, with a move to Iranian giants Persepolis now appearing imminent. According to reports from the Iranian Students’ News Agency, the 32-year-old has secured his visa and has already joined the club’s pre-season training camp in Turkey.
The final step before the move becomes official is a routine medical examination, which, if passed, will see the experienced defender sign with the Tehran-based side. Persepolis, reigning champions of Iran, are currently in need of reinforcements on the right flank, with 19-year-old Yaghoub Barajeh being the only natural right-back in the squad.
Aurier, who boasts 93 caps and 4 goals for the Ivorian national team, has been without a club for nearly a year after a short and uneventful stint with Galatasaray. He only made four appearances for the Turkish side and was unable to establish himself in the squad.
The potential move to Persepolis marks a fresh start for Aurier, whose career has spanned several top European leagues. He brings with him a wealth of experience:
Tottenham Hotspur: 110 appearances, 8 goals, 17 assists
Paris Saint-Germain: 81 appearances, 5 goals, 14 assists
Toulouse FC: 80 appearances, 8 goals, 13 assists
RC Lens: 56 appearances
Nottingham Forest: 41 appearances, 1 goal, 2 assists
Villarreal CF: 24 appearances, 2 assists
Galatasaray: 4 appearances
If the deal goes through, Aurier will become one of the most high-profile foreign signings in the Persian Gulf Pro League this summer.