Report: Man Utd consider surprise £84m striker move | OneFootball

Man Utd’s Striker Search: Aghehowa the Answer or Another Transfer Gamble?

Manchester United’s summer recruitment drive is beginning to take shape, with Porto’s Samu Aghehowa reportedly emerging as a serious target. According to GiveMeSport, the club has refused to rule out a move for the highly-rated forward, despite ongoing financial concerns and a failure to secure European football for next season.

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With Victor Osimhen still viewed as the dream acquisition, Aghehowa’s reported £84m release clause may make him a more attainable option. But is this another risky move in a long line of United’s transfer gambles, or could he be the solution to their striking woes?

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United’s Attack Needs Reinvention

Manchester United’s lack of firepower has been a defining issue this season. Rasmus Hojlund’s bright start has faded, and Joshua Zirkzee—signed for £36.5m from Bologna—has struggled to provide the consistent goal return required at this level.

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Ruben Amorim, expected to be officially confirmed as United’s new head coach, has prioritised attacking reinforcements to restore United’s reputation as a dominant force in the final third.

According to GiveMeSport sources,

While Aghehowa is reportedly high on the shortlist, the club’s financial limitations mean that securing a marquee signing will not be straightforward. With European qualification looking unlikely, United’s budget will be significantly impacted, potentially putting even Aghehowa out of reach.

Release Clause Dilemma: A Price Too Steep?

Aghehowa’s talent is undeniable, but with an £84m release clause, Porto will not let him leave cheaply.

United’s current financial situation remains precarious:

With FFP restrictions and a squad overhaul required, United must be strategic in their spending. If they are unable to offload fringe players to generate funds, then Aghehowa’s price tag could prove prohibitive.

Can United Compete with Europe’s Elite?

In an increasingly competitive transfer market, United’s lack of European football could be a major stumbling block. Elite talents such as Viktor Gyokeres and Benjamin Sesko—both of whom are reportedly admired at Old Trafford—may be unwilling to move to a club without continental competition.

For years, United’s stature alone was enough to lure top talent. Now, without the allure of Champions League football, they must make a more compelling pitch—one that goes beyond just wages. Convincing Aghehowa that Old Trafford is the right place for his development will be crucial.

Another High-Risk Gamble or a Smart Long-Term Investment?

United have been burned before by spending big on promising but unproven talent. From Antony to Jadon Sancho, recent investments have failed to yield the expected returns. Aghehowa, while undoubtedly talented, has just a single season at Porto under his belt. A move to the Premier League would be a significant step up.

While he has been described as ‘unreal’ and ‘one of Europe’s most prolific strikers,’ the risk remains that he may not adapt quickly enough to justify such a hefty investment. United must ask themselves whether they are willing to take that chance once again.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

The potential pursuit of Samu Aghehowa raises more questions than answers. The club has a long history of making high-risk attacking signings, often with mixed results.

Firstly, £84m is a huge fee for a player with limited experience in a top-five league. Porto have an excellent track record of selling players at inflated prices, and United—who are often seen as an easy target for clubs looking to maximise their returns—could once again be paying over the odds.

Secondly, does Aghehowa solve United’s actual problem? Hojlund’s struggles have been as much about service as finishing ability. Without addressing the lack of creativity in midfield and the inconsistency of the wide players, adding another young striker to the mix might not solve much.

Thirdly, why are United even entertaining such an expensive move when they have other urgent squad needs? The midfield remains a work in progress, and defensive reinforcements are also required. Would this money not be better spent on building a more balanced squad rather than making another statement signing?

Finally, there’s the harsh reality of competition. If Aghehowa is genuinely as good as claimed, why are other elite European clubs not queueing up for him? The fact that United see him as an ‘attainable’ target suggests he may not yet be at the level required for a club that still harbours ambitions of challenging for league titles.

In an ideal world, United’s transfer strategy should be about precision rather than desperation. Aghehowa may turn out to be a star, but United need to be absolutely certain before committing to yet another high-stakes gamble.