Newcastle United’s recruitment team is already hard at work, with scouts traveling across Europe to identify new targets ahead of both the January and 2026 summer transfer windows.
The club’s ambition to keep strengthening under Eddie Howe has led them to some exciting names, including FC Porto’s rising star Samu Aghehowa, who is quickly becoming one of the most sought-after young forwards in Europe.
Reports from Portugal suggest that Newcastle have joined the race to sign the 21-year-old forward, who has caught the eye with his impressive form in Liga Portugal.
Aghehowa enjoyed a sensational season last year, scoring 25 goals in all competitions and establishing himself as one of Porto’s most valuable assets. His sharp finishing, pace, and technical ability have attracted interest not only from Newcastle but also from Premier League rivals Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur, who have both sent scouts to monitor his progress.
Porto, aware of the growing attention surrounding their star player, have inserted an £87 million release clause into his contract. The clause not only protects Porto’s financial interests but also reflects how highly they value him, especially since his former club Atletico Madrid still own 50% of his transfer rights.
Despite the hefty clause, that hasn’t stopped top clubs from keeping close tabs on him, as his numbers continue to speak volumes. So far this season, Aghehowa has netted eight goals, further solidifying his reputation as one of Europe’s brightest young forwards.
Although the Spaniard had a quiet outing during Porto’s Europa League clash against Nottingham Forest at the City Ground, scouts from several English clubs were still in attendance, keen to assess his overall performance and movement off the ball.
With 45 senior goals already to his name at just 21 years old, Aghehowa is showing maturity beyond his years, and it’s no surprise that Newcastle’s recruitment team is keeping him on their radar.
Newcastle are not necessarily short of attacking options, with Nick Woltemade, Yoane Wissa, and Anthony Gordon all capable of leading the line. However, injuries have disrupted their momentum, particularly with Wissa sidelined early in the campaign.
Howe’s careful management of Woltemade’s and Gordon’s minutes has also hinted at the need for additional firepower in the squad. Adding a player of Aghehowa’s quality would not only bolster the attacking options but also provide much-needed depth ahead of a long, demanding season.
Meanwhile, Newcastle’s scouting network has also been keeping a close eye on local talent, with renewed interest in Middlesbrough midfielder Hayden Hackney.
The 23-year-old, who has been impressive in the Championship, is being monitored by both Newcastle and Manchester United. Hackney, born in Redcar, has two years remaining on his deal at Middlesbrough and is reportedly determined to move only if it means stepping up to the Premier League.
He turned down a switch to Ipswich Town last summer, preferring to focus on helping his current club in their promotion bid. Should Newcastle make a move, it would represent both a smart and sentimental acquisition, adding homegrown talent to their squad.
Another familiar name that has resurfaced in connection with Newcastle is Juventus defender Pierre Kalulu. The Magpies have a growing history of doing business with the Turin giants, and recent reports in Italy suggest Kalulu could be next on their list.
The Frenchman, aged 25, fits perfectly into Newcastle’s vision a versatile, ready-made defender with experience at the highest level. Capable of playing both at centre-back and right-back, Kalulu offers flexibility and reliability, qualities that could prove vital for Howe’s side.
With uncertainty surrounding the futures of Kieran Trippier, Fabian Schär, and Jamaal Lascelles, Kalulu could be seen as a long-term solution.
Italian outlets have reported a possible £26 million valuation for the defender, which seems like solid value for a player of his calibre.
Having already established himself as a dependable performer in Serie A and the Champions League, he would bring composure and athleticism to Newcastle’s backline.
As Newcastle continue to evolve into a European force, these links show that the club is leaving no stone unturned in its pursuit of excellence.
From young European stars like Aghehowa to proven defenders such as Kalulu, and promising local talents like Hackney, the Magpies are building with both the present and future in mind.
Eddie Howe’s project is focused not just on short-term success but on creating a squad capable of sustaining top-level football for years to come.
