Sky Sport: Newcastle looking to new €100m striker in serious statement of intent
Newcastle United’s Summer Transfer Plans Could Depend on Alexander Isak’s Future Amid Aghehowa Interest
Newcastle United’s transfer strategy this summer appears to be tightly linked to the uncertain future of their star striker, Alexander Isak. The Swedish international, recently ranked fourth in FourFourTwo’s list of the world’s top strikers, is reportedly attracting serious attention from Premier League champions Liverpool. If Isak were to depart St. James’ Park, it would leave a significant void in the Magpies’ frontline—both in terms of physical presence and footballing influence.
There were strong indications that Newcastle were close to securing the signing of Brazilian forward Joao Pedro. However, recent developments suggest he is now on course for a move to Chelsea, leaving Newcastle’s attacking plans hanging in the balance. This unexpected turn has only increased the pressure on the club’s recruitment team as they navigate a pivotal summer.
For now, there is no concrete sign that Isak is on the verge of an exit. The 24-year-old remains under contract for at least another three years, and with Champions League football returning to Tyneside next season, the club is hopeful he will remain committed to Eddie Howe’s project. Isak has previously expressed his satisfaction with life at Newcastle, and there’s no current indication that he is actively seeking a move.
However, the situation remains fluid, and with Callum Wilson’s departure confirmed, Newcastle’s attacking depth is worryingly thin. Currently, Isak is supported only by young striker William Osula. While Osula showcased his talent during the Under-21 European Championship this summer, he struggled to make a consistent impact in senior matches last season. With the club expected to compete in multiple competitions next term—including the Premier League, FA Cup, Carabao Cup, and Champions League—Eddie Howe will need greater attacking depth to manage the demanding fixture list.
As a result, the club’s attention has reportedly turned to a rising star in Portuguese football: Samu Aghehowa. The 21-year-old Nigerian forward has enjoyed a breakthrough season with FC Porto, scoring an impressive 27 goals across all competitions. Despite Porto’s underwhelming performance at the recent FIFA Club World Cup, Aghehowa emerged as one of the few bright sparks, drawing attention from scouts across Europe.
According to reports from Spanish outlet Fichajes, Porto are demanding a hefty €100 million (£85 million) to part with their prized asset this summer. It’s a steep asking price, but one that Newcastle could realistically meet if Isak is sold. The Magpies would likely command a British record fee—potentially around £130 million—for the Swedish striker, providing them with the financial power to aggressively pursue a top-tier replacement like Aghehowa.
Newcastle are not alone in their interest. Aston Villa are also rumoured to be eyeing a move for Aghehowa, especially in light of Marcus Rashford’s loan deal not being converted into a permanent transfer. With Ollie Watkins’ future also facing uncertainty, Villa may soon join the race for the Porto frontman.
Should Newcastle move for Aghehowa, it would represent more than just a reactionary signing—it would be a bold statement of intent. The young striker, though still developing, has all the attributes to grow into a world-class talent. The Magpies have already shown their ability to develop and eventually profit from young forwards, as seen with Isak, and Aghehowa could follow a similar trajectory. Investing in him now, even at a high cost, could pay dividends both on the pitch and in future transfer windows.
Despite his current €50 million valuation on Transfermarkt, Porto’s high asking price is a reflection of his potential and market demand. For Newcastle, the decision may ultimately hinge on whether they can keep hold of Isak. But in the event that they can’t, Aghehowa appears to be a well-identified and exciting contingency plan—one that could secure the club’s attacking future for years to come.