Samu Aghehowa, the newest striker on Newcastle United’s shortlist, could surpass former target Benjamin Sesko if the Magpies succeed in luring him away from Porto.

Hopes were high among Newcastle fans ahead of the 2025/26 campaign. Eddie Howe’s side sealed Champions League qualification for the second time in three years, shortly after ending a seven-decade wait for silverware by lifting the Carabao Cup.

With European football on the horizon again, Newcastle have been busy in the transfer market. Beyond Jacob Ramsey, who is closing in on a switch from Aston Villa, three signings have already arrived. Aaron Ramsdale joined on loan to rival Nick Pope, while winger Anthony Elanga and centre-back Malick Thiaw also strengthened the squad.

Even so, it has not been the smoothest of summers for Howe’s men, who have failed to land several top targets. Their biggest difficulty has come in attack, where they missed out on the likes of Joao Pedro, Hugo Ekitike, and Benjamin Sesko, despite heavy interest.

Complicating matters further, star striker Alexander Isak has demanded an exit, with Liverpool widely considered his chosen destination. Replacing Isak will be a huge challenge, yet Newcastle – who are pursuing Brentford’s Yoane Wissa – know they must bring in at least two forwards. With Isak absent, youngster Will Osula was the only recognised number nine available in the draw at Aston Villa.

Having seen multiple striking options slip away, Newcastle could still secure one who might prove superior to many of the players earlier linked to the club.

Earlier this month, GIVE ME SPORT revealed exclusively that Newcastle had turned their attention towards Samu Aghehowa. The forward joined Atletico Madrid in 2023 but spent his lone season there out on loan. He later sealed a transfer to Porto last summer and enjoyed a standout breakthrough in Portuguese football.

At just 21, Aghehowa is a powerful centre-forward with sharp instincts in front of goal, who has already represented the Spanish national side. Though negotiations would be “anything but straightforward” and come at a cost of £80 million, the deal is considered worthwhile given Newcastle’s urgent search for attackers.

Reports suggest the Magpies are preparing an official offer for the Spaniard. While he may not have topped their original list of candidates, comparisons with previous targets indicate Newcastle may have unearthed a gem in pursuit of his signature.

Although the Bundesliga and Primeira Liga are of different levels, Aghehowa clearly outshone Sesko statistically last term. His output across the 2024/25 season confirms why the young forward has been widely labelled a “prolific” striker.