Spurs plot record bid for “one of the best CFs in Europe”, he’s far better than Kolo Muani

As 2025 edges towards its conclusion, Tottenham Hotspur head coach Thomas Frank will already be looking ahead to a crucial January transfer window, knowing full well that reinforcements could define the trajectory of Spurs’ season.

That much feels unavoidable. Tottenham’s calendar year has been one of contrasts — flashes of promise interspersed with frustrating inconsistency, particularly in the Premier League, where performances at home have often fallen short of expectations. While the club did end Ange Postecoglou’s tenure on a high by lifting the Europa League, league form has failed to follow the same upward curve.

Still, the picture is far from bleak. A sustained run of positive results over the coming months could catapult Spurs firmly into Champions League contention, but only if decisive action is taken behind the scenes. With so many clubs jostling for position, Tottenham’s hierarchy know that January could be the moment where fortunes are shaped — and many supporters agree that a new centre-forward should sit high on the list of priorities.

Spurs weighing up striker reinforcements

The current striking options have not provided Thomas Frank with much clarity. Dominic Solanke has featured just twice in the Premier League this season, both appearances coming from the bench, while Richarlison has been entrusted with the starting role. The Brazilian, however, continues to frustrate as much as he excites, capable of decisive moments yet rarely delivering them with consistency.

Meanwhile, Randal Kolo Muani has shown signs of settling after a difficult beginning to his loan spell in north London. There have been glimpses of his quality, but those flashes have not yet translated into tangible end product on a regular basis.

Some within the fanbase argue that midfield should be Tottenham’s main focus in January, particularly given the lack of control in certain matches. Others, however, point to a blunt attacking edge, with Spurs often labouring in the final third and struggling to convert dominance into goals.

What is clear is that if Tottenham are serious about taking the next step, the addition of a proven, high-level goal scorer could prove transformative.

Samu Aghehowa emerges as top target

Enter Samu Aghehowa. According to reports from Spain, ENIC Group have identified the 21-year-old Porto striker as their primary objective heading into the January transfer window, with a formal bid believed to be in preparation.

Since arriving at Porto from Atlético Madrid in 2024, Samu has developed into a prolific figure in Liga Portugal, quickly establishing himself as one of the league’s most feared attacking presences. Porto are understandably reluctant to lose him mid-season, but his contract includes a sizeable €100 million release clause — roughly £87 million — which could be activated if Tottenham decide to make a statement of intent.

Why Samu could be the ideal fit for Tottenham

While Samu is yet to test himself in the Premier League, there is growing confidence that he possesses all the tools required to thrive in England’s top flight. His blend of physicality, movement and technical quality suggests he could become Tottenham’s focal point in attack for years to come.

Such a move would inevitably cast further doubt over Kolo Muani’s long-term future at the club. The French forward has failed to register a goal or an assist across ten Premier League appearances and, while service has often been limited, the numbers paint an underwhelming picture. Despite scoring twice in a chaotic 5–3 defeat to parent club Paris Saint-Germain, he has missed four big chances in league action and completed just 29% of his dribbles, according to Sofascore.

Time is beginning to run short for the 26-year-old, particularly with a player of Samu’s profile firmly on Spurs’ radar.

A striker built for the modern game

Samu’s rise has been underpinned by a notable evolution in his playing style. Previously more conservative in his movement, he now dribbles with increasing frequency for a centre-forward, adding unpredictability and thrust to his game. While Kolo Muani’s pace and ball-carrying ability remain among his strongest traits — attributes even praised by international teammate Kylian Mbappé, who once labelled him a “complete” forward — Samu is quickly proving he can match, and perhaps surpass, that level of all-round impact.

This is not merely a traditional target man. Samu combines his towering frame with remarkable athleticism, capable of contorting his body in moments of improvisation, as memorably demonstrated by an outrageous scissor kick in last season’s Europa League.

Statistically, he already stands out. According to FBref, Samu ranks among the top 16% of strikers in Liga Portugal for shot-creating actions, and the top 5% for successful take-ons per 90 minutes, highlighting his dynamism and creativity in attacking phases. Journalist Zach Lowy has gone as far as to suggest that Samu could become “one of the best strikers in Europe”, a claim backed up by his increasingly clinical finishing.

A defining decision for Spurs

Would Samu represent an upgrade on Kolo Muani? In terms of potential and long-term value, the answer appears to be yes. With the Frenchman’s form fluctuating and his future uncertain beyond this season, it seems unlikely that Tottenham would pursue a permanent deal unless there is a dramatic turnaround in the months ahead.

For Spurs, acting decisively now could prove pivotal. Securing Samu before rival clubs intensify their interest may offer Tottenham the chance to build around a striker entering his prime — one capable of spearheading an exciting new chapter in north London.

January may well define Tottenham’s season, and Samu Aghehowa could be the signing that tips the balance.