After a tumultuous summer of striker pursuits, Newcastle United have a new primary target on their radar.
The club has swiftly moved on from the Benjamin Sesko saga, with the Slovenian just announced as a new Manchester United player.
This has shifted Newcastle's focus to FC Porto's highly-rated forward, Samuel "Samu" Aghehowa.
🚨 Newcastle United considering move to sign Samu Aghehowa from FC Porto. 21yo #FCPorto striker high among small number of options to bolster attack. No formal approach or guarantee it happens but Spain int’l liked by #NUFC. W/ @AdamCrafton_ @TheAthleticFC https://t.co/FG7eJVc3cx
— David Ornstein (@David_Ornstein) August 8, 2025
Who is Samu Aghehowa?
Samu Aghehowa, a 21-year-old Spanish forward, has been making a name for himself as one of Europe's most promising young strikers.
He initially rose through the ranks at Atletico Madrid before a permanent move to Porto in 2024.
His name change from Omorodion to Aghehowa, in honour of his mother, adds a personal story that could resonate with the St. James' Park faithful.
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Last season was his breakout campaign.
He scored an impressive 27 goals in 45 appearances across all competitions for Porto.
This included six goals in nine Europa League matches, and a memorable brace against Manchester United in a 3-3 group stage draw.
He's also a Spain international, having earned his first senior cap last season and been part of the gold medal-winning U23 team at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Why do Newcastle want Samu?
Newcastle's pursuit of Samu is not just a reaction to missing out on Sesko; it's a calculated move based on the specific qualities Eddie Howe values in his attack.
Spanish national team boss Luis de la Fuente, who gave Samu his debut, perfectly articulated why he fits the bill:
"Samu is good with his back to goal, strong in transition, shoots well, is comfortable in the box. He can adapt to what we like."
This quote highlights the key reasons Newcastle are so keen:
Physicality and aerial threat: At 6ft 4in, Samu is a "proper No. 9." He combines raw power with a surprising turn of pace. He's a menace in the air, a quality that Newcastle, with their wing-play, could exploit. This profile is a direct response to the kind of forward Eddie Howe needs to lead the line.
A nuisance for defenders: He has an incredibly high work rate, tirelessly pressing opponents and making life difficult for centre-backs. This tenacity, combined with his strength, allows him to hold up the ball and create space for teammates.
Proven goalscoring instincts: Scoring 27 goals in a debut season at Porto is no small feat. He has shown he can deliver against top European opposition, and his ability to finish with both feet and his head is exactly what Newcastle's attack needs to convert chances.
The pursuit of Samu is an ambitious one.
Reports suggest he has a €100 million release clause, and Porto are known for being tough negotiators.
However, with the Alexander Isak saga still looming, and Liverpool reportedly preparing a second bid for the Swede, Newcastle know they need to act decisively.
In Samu Aghehowa, they believe they have found a young, powerful, and prolific striker who could fill the potential void and drive their team forward.
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