Barcelona is already preparing for Robert Lewandowski’s departure. The club is working behind the scenes to find the next big name to spearhead their assault, as the Polish striker is anticipated to depart when his contract expires next summer.
Although players like Erling Haaland and Julián Álvarez have been linked in recent months, the Catalans are now focussing on Samu Aghehowa, a 21-year-old Spanish forward who is making waves at Porto FC and is a lesser-known but extremely potential talent.
Samu Aghehowa has been the new target.
After an outstanding start to his career in Portugal, Aghehowa has emerged as one of Europe’s most talked-about young strikers. He has scored 32 goals in 53 appearances since joining Porto, including seven goals in his opening 11 games this season. His poise and deft movement inside the box have garnered him a lot of acclaim.
Samu is no stranger to La Liga football, having played in Spain earlier in his career, scoring nine goals in thirty-five games. Barcelona scouts have kept a careful eye on his progress, and rumours have it that Joan Laporta and Deco, the sporting director, believe he would be a perfect long-term successor for Lewandowski.
Why Barça is interested in him
Aghehowa exemplifies the aggressive and dynamic striker required by Hansi Flick’s system, who can link up with midfielders and press from the front. He is a perfect fit for the tactical style Flick intends to establish at Camp Nou because of his versatility, finishing prowess, and work ethic.
According to Spanish sources, Barcelona sees him as an investment for the now and the future, with the ability to establish himself as the team’s primary offensive reference for the ensuing ten years.
Barcelona’s strategy: a bid of €60 million
Barcelona is getting ready to test Porto’s willpower with an offer of €60 million, although Samu Aghehowa’s current release clause is estimated to be about €100 million. Given Porto’s financial demands and their track record of letting young players make significant moves, the club intends to negotiate advantageous conditions.
Porto is anticipated to play hardball, though. A number of Premier League clubs have apparently made initial enquiries, and the Portuguese team is aware that Aghehowa’s market worth is increasing.
The timing and dangers
Timing and competition will be Barcelona’s major obstacles. Other clubs might join in and raise the price if Porto rejects the first offer or if the process takes too long. Porto has the leverage to wait for a larger bid because Aghehowa’s contract is set to expire in 2029.
Still, Laporta and Deco remain confident. Aghehowa is an excellent fit for Barça’s rebuilding strategy because the team prioritises long-term acquisitions that blend skill and long-term worth.
A future signing
Samu Aghehowa might end up being one of the most significant acquisitions of the post-Lewandowski period if Barcelona is able to sign him. In addition to offering instant depth up front, his signing would signal the start of a fresh offensive cycle at Camp Nou.
Barcelona’s message is clear for the time being: Samu Aghehowa is at the top of their list as they look for the next great No. 9.
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