Ghanaian midfielder Aaron Essel has sealed a transfer to United Soccer League (USL) outfit Sacramento Republic FC in the United States.
The 20-year-old joins the American second-division club from Scottish Premiership side St Johnstone after agreeing terms on a permanent deal.
Essel will officially be added to Sacramento Republic’s squad once league and federation approvals are finalized, alongside the issuance of his P-1 visa and International Transfer Certificate (ITC).
Republic FC head coach Neill Collins expressed excitement over the signing, praising the midfielder’s qualities and experience.
“Aaron adds energy, athleticism, and a strong work ethic to our squad,” Collins said. “His exposure to different leagues and international football has prepared him well to contribute as we push to compete for trophies this season.”
The former Bechem United player is no stranger to football in the United States, having previously featured on loan for MLS NEXT Pro side North Texas SC. During the 2025 campaign, he made 17 appearances, scoring twice and registering one assist while finishing second in the team’s passing statistics with an impressive 86 percent accuracy rate.
Speaking after completing the move, Essel expressed his excitement about the new challenge.
“I’m very happy to join Republic FC this season. Sacramento has a passionate football culture and a club with strong ambitions, which is exactly the kind of environment I wanted,” he said. “I’m eager to get on the field and give my all for the team and the supporters.”
Essel began his professional career at Bechem United, where he made 68 appearances before earning a move to St Johnstone. He has also broken into the Ghana senior national team, making his debut in the Unity Cup clash against Nigeria in May 2025.
