In a significant development for the January transfer window, Tottenham Hotspur have emerged as the frontrunners in the pursuit of highly-rated FC Porto striker Samu Aghehowa. The North London club is poised to address its need for a reliable centre-forward with a potential move for the 21-year-old Spaniard, who has a release clause of approximately £70 million.
Spurs' Striker Search Heats Up
Despite a summer of heavy investment that saw arrivals like Mohammed Kudus and Xavi Simons, Tottenham failed to secure a permanent, out-and-out striker. The loan signing of Randal Kolo Muani from Paris Saint-Germain has yet to yield a consistent goal return, while the injury-prone Dominic Solanke and inconsistent Richarlison have highlighted the gap in the squad.
A recent £100 million capital injection from the Lewis family trust has given manager Thomas Frank significant funds to work with in January. A substantial portion of this war chest is now expected to be allocated to the acquisition of Aghehowa, whose goal-scoring record has turned heads across Europe.
Aghehowa: From Chelsea Rejection to Porto Prodigy
The young striker's journey to this point includes a notable near-miss. In 2024, Chelsea had agreed a deal for Aghehowa, but the transfer was dramatically called off after the player failed a medical due to an ankle issue.
This setback proved fortuitous for FC Porto, who stepped in to sign him from Atletico Madrid for a mere €15 million. Since then, Aghehowa has flourished in Portugal, amassing an impressive 36 goals in 60 appearances, including nine this season alone. His contract contains a €100 million release clause, but reports suggest Porto would be willing to accept an offer in the region of €80 million (£70m).
A Crowded Transfer Race
Tottenham are not without competition for the Spaniard's signature. The report from CaughtOffside indicates that Arsenal, Newcastle United, and his former suitors Chelsea are all monitoring the situation.
However, Spurs may hold a crucial advantage. The other linked clubs all invested heavily in new strikers during the summer transfer window. Arsenal signed Viktor Gyokeres, Chelsea brought in Liam Delap and Joao Pedro, and Newcastle acquired Yoane Wissa and Nick Wolatemade. This recent activity potentially makes Tottenham the most realistic and motivated destination for Aghehowa, who is seen as a player with immense potential for growth.
FIFA's in-depth player profile has drawn comparisons between Aghehowa and former Spanish internationals Fernando Torres and Alvaro Morata, praising his ability to hold up the ball with his back to goal. Former Spain striker Jonathan Soriano endorsed his style, stating, "We need forwards like him because that’s the direction football is heading in. It’s a quicker, more physical game nowadays. Samu is still very young and there’s massive scope for him to improve."
