Chelsea and Arsenal are reportedly set to battle for the signing of Porto forward Samu Aghehowa in the upcoming summer transfer window.
The 20-year-old, who was previously linked with a move to Chelsea from Atletico Madrid in 2024, ultimately joined Porto, where he has enjoyed a standout campaign.
Aghehowa has netted 19 goals and provided three assists in 31 appearances this season, showcasing his scoring prowess both domestically and in European competitions.
In the Primeira Liga, he has recorded 13 goals and three assists in 19 matches, while his Europa League tally includes six goals in nine games—two of which came against Manchester United.
According to CaughtOffside, Chelsea are looking to revive their interest in the young striker, but Arsenal are also in the mix, with the Gunners eager to strengthen their attacking options ahead of next season.
Despite Aghehowa’s contract at Porto containing a €100m (£82.5m) release clause, reports suggest that a bid in the region of €50m (£41m) could be enough to persuade the Portuguese club to sell.
Aston Villa and West Ham United have also shown interest, though Chelsea and Arsenal appear to be leading the race for his signature.
Aghehowa, who is considered a key figure in Spain’s long-term plans, has taken his game to new heights following a productive loan spell at Alaves last season, where he scored eight goals in La Liga.
Reflecting on his challenging summer before his move to Porto, Aghehowa previously admitted to EFE, “The gold medal [with Spain U23 at the Olympics] wasn’t so bitter. But it was a very difficult summer. When I was in Madrid I had a very bad time. In the end, thank God, everything turned out well. If the Chelsea deal didn’t work out it was for a reason and in the end everything turned out well.”
Recalling his struggles at Atletico Madrid, he added, “There – at Atletico Madrid – I trained separately. I didn’t feel involved, not like a footballer. I trained and my head told me no. I had a bad time. I cried a lot at night… my family and my mother had a very bad time… In the end, thank God, everything came together quickly and I made the best decision.
“Nobody spoke to me and I didn’t speak to anyone. I was still an Atletico Madrid player, I had to go to training and do my job. I already knew the club’s position. These are things that happen in football and that make you gain experience and learn for the future.”
Now thriving at Porto, Aghehowa’s next move could see him land in the Premier League, with Chelsea and Arsenal poised for a summer showdown over his signature.
