
Barcelona are already planning for life after Robert Lewandowski. With the Polish striker expected to leave when his contract expires next summer, the club is working behind the scenes to secure the next big name to lead their attack.
While stars like Julián Álvarez and Erling Haaland have been linked in recent months, the Catalans are now turning their attention toward a lesser-known but highly promising talent — Samu Aghehowa, the 21-year-old Spanish forward making waves at Porto FC.
The new target: Samu Aghehowa
Aghehowa has become one of Europe’s most talked-about young strikers after an impressive start to life in Portugal. Since joining Porto, he has scored 32 goals in 53 matches, including 7 goals in his first 11 games this season, earning widespread praise for his composure and sharp movement inside the box.
Having already played in Spain earlier in his career, where he netted 9 goals in 35 appearances, Samu is no stranger to La Liga football. Scouts from Barcelona have closely monitored his development, with reports suggesting Joan Laporta and sporting director Deco see him as the ideal long-term replacement for Lewandowski.
Why Barça want him
Hansi Flick’s system demands an active and dynamic striker capable of pressing from the front and linking up with midfielders — qualities Aghehowa embodies. His combination of mobility, finishing ability, and work rate makes him a natural fit for the tactical identity Flick wants to implement at Camp Nou.
Sources in Spain claim Barcelona view him as both a present and future investment, with the potential to become the club’s main attacking reference for the next decade.
Barcelona’s plan: a €60 million bid
Samu Aghehowa’s current release clause is believed to be around €100 million, but Barcelona are preparing to test Porto’s resolve with a €60 million offer. The club hopes to negotiate favorable terms given Porto’s financial needs and their history of allowing young players to make big moves.
However, Porto are expected to play hardball. The Portuguese side know Aghehowa’s market value is rising, and several Premier League clubs have reportedly made initial inquiries.
The risks and timing
The biggest challenge for Barcelona will be competition and timing. If Porto reject the initial offer, or if the operation drags on, other clubs could step in and inflate the price. Aghehowa’s contract runs until 2029, giving Porto leverage to wait for a higher bid.
Still, Laporta and Deco remain confident. With the club’s focus on sustainable signings that combine talent and long-term value, Aghehowa fits perfectly into Barça’s rebuilding plan.
A signing for the future
If Barcelona manage to secure his signature, Samu Aghehowa could become one of the most important signings of the post-Lewandowski era. His arrival would not only provide immediate depth up front but also mark the beginning of a new attacking cycle at Camp Nou.
For now, Barcelona’s message is clear: the search for the next great No.9 is on, and Samu Aghehowa is at the top of their list.
