In a landmark move for South African football development, Kaizer Chiefs youth product Aden McCarthy has officially completed a permanent transfer to Azerbaijani giants Sabah FK.
The 22-year-old defender has put pen to paper on a lucrative three-year contract, which includes an option for a further year, keeping him in the Azerbaijani capital until at least 2029.
The Details of the Deal
The Baku-based outfit secured the highly-rated centre-back by triggering the buyout clause in his Kaizer Chiefs contract. The deal is understood to be worth in the region of R10 million. In a strategic move for Amakhosi’s long-term financial interests, the Naturena-based club has also secured a 10% sell-on clause, ensuring a windfall should McCarthy move on to another European club in the future.
A Historic Path to the Champions League
McCarthy’s move comes at a golden era for Sabah FK, who recently lifted the Azerbaijan Premier League title. This domestic triumph has booked them a coveted spot in the upcoming 2026/27 UEFA Champions League qualifying rounds, offering the young South African a direct pathway to football’s most prestigious club competition.
This is not the first time Sabah FK has looked to Naturena for talent. McCarthy follows in the footsteps of fellow Kaizer Chiefs academy graduate Hendrick “Pule” Ekstein, who previously enjoyed a stint with the Azerbaijani side.
Naturena’s Global Impact
McCarthy’s departure represents a massive scouting and financial victory for the Kaizer Chiefs youth academy. While Amakhosi fans will be disappointed to see a homegrown talent leave before fully establishing himself in the first team, the R10 million injection and the prospect of seeing a graduate on the UEFA Champions League stage reinforces Chiefs’ status as a premier developmental hub in Africa.
McCarthy is expected to link up with his new teammates immediately as Sabah FK begins preparations for their European qualifying campaign.
