Aston Villa told to pay whopping transfer fee for Samu after Porto aim to discourage Premier League interest in star forward

Villa have made a formal enquiry to sign Porto striker Samu, as reported by The Daily Mail and confirmed by Correio da Manha. However, the Portuguese giants are determined to fight off interest after his impressive 19-goal season, having spent €17m to secure his full rights recently. They are in no rush to sell and have pointed to the player’s €100m (£86m/$114m) release clause as their benchmark in any negotiation. Reports from England claim that they can be talked down to around £55m ($73m).

The move underscores Villa’s ambitious intent under Unai Emery as they prepare for a Champions League return. With growing uncertainty over Ollie Watkins’ long-term future and the need for greater squad depth, Villa are scanning the European market for top-end attacking talent. Samu, at 21, fits the profile, young, proven in Europe and tactically versatile. However, Porto’s firm stance, shaped by their own financial strategy and desire to compete at home and in Europe, presents a significant hurdle.

According to reports in Portugal and the UK, Emery has long admired the Spanish forward. Porto’s early investment in Samu was partly motivated by interest from the Premier League, particularly from Aston Villa. The club’s new president, Andre Villas-Boas, is believed to have referenced Arsenal’s recent €60m (£51m/$68m) move for Viktor Gyokeres as a precedent. Despite Villa’s Champions League pull, they may need to negotiate creatively to avoid triggering the full clause. Meanwhile, Samu continues pre-season preparations, having scored in a 3-0 friendly win over Famalicao.

Villa must now decide whether to match Porto’s valuation, negotiate a structured deal, or pivot to alternative targets. With the clock ticking on the transfer window and European fixtures ahead, Emery may push for swift resolution. If Villa meet the price or get creative with bonuses, Samu could be the statement signing to elevate their continental campaign.