‘A good price' - Chris Wilder reacts to Osula departure as forgotten Newcastle ace set for international debut

Sheffield United manager Chris Wilder claims the Blades have not discussed a loan back arrangement for William Osula after the promising striker completed his move to Newcastle United.

Osula has signed a long-term contract at St James’ Park for a fee in the region of £10m in a deal, which also includes a reported £5m in add-ons. The 21-year-old becomes the club’s fifth first team signing of the window after moves for Lloyd Kelly, Odysseas Vlachodimos, John Ruddy and Lewis Hall.

He is expected to become the club’s third choice striker behind last season’s top scorer Alexander Isak and the team’s second top scorer in the Premier League era in Callum Wilson.

Wilder admitted that it was difficult to let Osula depart, but described it as a fantastic opportunity for him to work under two great operators in Eddie Howe and Jason Tindall whilst adding that it was a good deal for both parties.

Wilder told the Sheffield Star: “It’s a great move for Will, working with two fantastic operators in Eddie and Jason and a great club. I’ve talked about it in great length how difficult it is (when a Premier League club comes for a player) but the club feels it’s got a good price for a promising player.

“He goes with our best wishes and he’s excited about the move. Sometimes it’s pretty different to hold back and then you talk about getting the best deal and we feel it’s a good price.”

Eddie Howe admitted that he was alerted to Osula’s qualities by assistant coach Jason Tindall, who worked with the player for a brief period at Sheffield United between March and November 2021 before again linking up with Howe at St James’ Park.

Forgotten Newcastle hero set for international opportunity at 29

Newcastle United midfielder Isaac Hayden is reportedly the subject of interest from the Jamaica national team, according to Daily Telegraph reporter Mike McGrath.

The Reggae Boyz recently appointed ex-Magpies boss Steve McLaren after the departure of Heimir Hallgrímsson to the Republic of Ireland and are now pushing hard to qualify for a first World Cup since 1998.

McLaren, who most recently worked as assistant manager to Erik ten Hag at Manchester United, is hoping to attract experienced players to represent Jamaica and is targeting Hayden, who is eligible to play for the national team through his parents.Hayden represented England at all age groups from U16 to U21 but is yet to make an appearance for the Three Lions at senior level.

The midfielder, who is expected to depart on loan once again this summer, stated his interest in playing for Jamaica back in March 2021, but is still waiting for his international debut.