For some time now, there has been a player who consistently demonstrates his goal-scoring effectiveness, and whose future seems very clear for the upcoming summer market. It is Gyökeres, who has scored more than 40 goals this season and is waiting to make a quality leap in his career. His release price would be below 100 million euros, and Atlético de Madrid has been closely monitoring his progress since last season.
However, there was an aid that was going to give the red-and-white team more room to maneuver to try to reach an agreement with Sporting de Portugal. However, that option is in jeopardy, as one of the keys was Unai Emery and his desire to find a replacement for Jhon Durán. The forward left the Premier League for Saudi Arabia in the last winter market, and Aston Villa would be looking for a new star.
Unexpected Turn in Unai Emery's Desire
In recent weeks, Aston Villa had set its sights on Samu Aghehowa, a former Atlético de Madrid player and one of the greatest promises in all of European soccer. He is standing out in his first season with Porto, even debuting with Spain's national team at the end of 2024. It seemed he was the chosen one to replace Jhon Durán, however, the English club would have been interested in another option that would be more economical.
It is Dušan Vlahović, a Serbian international who would be looking to leave Juventus of Turin after not accepting to renew his contract. The Italian team would have set his release price at 30 million euros, an amount lower than the 100 million release clause that Samu Aghehowa has. In this case, it would be a severe blow for Atlético de Madrid, as it would directly affect their potential income for the summer.
Samu Aghehowa, a Key Sale
Porto signed the Spaniard for 15 million euros, but the red-and-white team still holds half of his rights, which is important. This way, the red-and-white team will receive half of the amount for which the Portuguese sell the forward, although they could increase that percentage. By paying another small amount in the summer, they would increase their ownership of Samu Aghehowa, reducing potential income at the Metropolitano.
Even so, the sports management is eager for the player to show his best version again and attract the attention of the best clubs in the world. It would be key, as his potential sale would provide a greater cushion to make big signings and continue improving the squad. There are still several months left in the season, although Porto is already out of the Europa League and too far from competing for the Portuguese championship.