Football BaBe
- Spain star Aghehowa unlikely to join Newcastle this summer
- Porto striker not tempted by ‘greed’ amid transfer links
- Magpies face another rejection in search for new striker
Reports from Portuguese outlet Record claim Aghehowa is aware of Newcastle’s interest but is fully committed to Porto’s campaign. The forward’s stance comes despite Eddie Howe’s side searching for attacking reinforcements after missing out on several targets. Porto are also unwilling to sanction a sale just a year after signing him from Atletico Madrid.
Newcastle’s striker hunt has already seen them fail to land RB Leipzig‘s Benjamin Sesko, who chose Manchester United instead. Interest in Aghehowa comes amid uncertainty over Alexander Isak’s future, with Liverpool having a £110m bid rejected. Porto, protected by a €100m (£87m/$117m) release clause, remain in a strong negotiating position.
While Record claim Aghehowa’s focus is on winning trophies with Porto rather than chasing a big payday, O Jogo adds that a late move for the Spaniard to Newcastle is “not impossible”. Even with an offer, convincing the striker to leave will be a major challenge for the Magpies.
Unless Newcastle make a huge bid that changes Porto’s stance, Aghehowa looks set to remain in Portugal. Howe’s side may be forced to explore alternative targets as the transfer deadline looms. For now, Porto’s star striker remains firmly focused on silverware in the Primeira Liga.