€80m replacement lined up: Villa act fast as Man Utd prepare Watkins raid

 

VILLA'S BOLD MOVE: €80M STRIKER SCOUTED AS WATKINS FACES MAN UTD TRANSFER LINKS

Aston Villa have registered strong interest in FC Porto striker Sami Aghehowa as they prepare for the possibility of losing star forward Ollie Watkins during the summer transfer window. The Spanish-born striker has been identified as a high-potential target should Manchester United succeed in prising Watkins away from Villa Park.

Villa are bracing for a critical few weeks, with United intensifying their pursuit of Watkins as part of a broader attacking rebuild under new manager Rúben Amorim. While Villa remain hopeful of keeping the England international, they are also planning proactively and have turned their attention to Aghehowa, who enjoyed a breakout season in Portugal.

The 21-year-old striker, known for his clinical finishing, off-the-ball movement, and physical presence in the box, has seen his stock rise sharply following an impressive campaign with Porto. The Portuguese giants have placed a valuation of €80 million (£69m/$93.5m) on the young forward, a figure reflective of his age, form, and long-term potential.

Villa are monitoring the situation closely and would only move decisively if Watkins leaves. Club officials believe Aghehowa could not only replace Watkins' goals but also offer a fresh attacking dynamic more suited to manager Unai Emery’s evolving tactical setup.

Despite his youth, Aghehowa has shown remarkable composure in front of goal and is considered one of the top emerging strikers in European football. His blend of athleticism and sharp instincts inside the box have drawn attention from several top clubs across the continent, but Villa believe they can present a compelling project, especially with European football back on the table next season.

Aston Villa are also understood to be in early dialogue with Porto to understand the structure of a potential deal. While the €80m price tag could be negotiated depending on interest from other clubs and the player’s willingness to make the move, Porto are under no pressure to sell unless their valuation is met.

As for Watkins, Manchester United continue to circle, viewing the England forward as an ideal fit for their frontline. If that move gathers momentum, Villa are ready to act quickly to ensure they have a top-tier replacement lined up.

With the transfer window heating up and several high-profile striker moves in play across Europe, Villa’s pursuit of Sami Aghehowa could become one of the key storylines of the summer should they be forced to enter the market.