Newcastle United have big change of heart on Will Osula’s future as transfer decision made
Will Osula has enjoyed a notable improvement in his performances at Newcastle United this season.
Newcastle United will reportedly not consider offers for Will Osula in the January transfer window.
A hectic deadline day almost saw the young striker leave the Magpies amid interest from Eintracht Frankfurt. NewcastleWorld understands Toon chiefs had all but agreed a £30million sale - doubling their money on the forward in 12 months.
However, drastic late change to the deal - with Frankfurt revising their bid to a loan offer - resulted in PIF pulling the plug. There was also the nervousness around Yoane Wissa’s switch, with the former Brentford man not signing for Newcastle until seconds before the deadline.
Will Osula impact since failed move
Newcastle fans have recognised a notable improvement in Osula’s performances this season. Last year, opportunities were few and far between, with the 22-year-old viewed as erratic and raw.
Fast forward to the present and his displays appear more fine-tuned to Eddie Howe’s system. Largely from the bench, Osula has four goal contributions - which should be five given his heroics on the weekend.
The Dane came off the bench in the 87th minute against Fulham last weekend and arguably scooped man of the match. His energy and shot led to Bruno Guimaraes tapping home a stoppage-time winner.
Newcastle United rethink
The £30million initially offered was as a good price for Newcastle to accept in August. But the perception has changed, with the Magpies now unwilling to do business.
The Daily Mail claims Newcastle will turn down any approach for Osula during the winter window. St James’ Park bosses now believe Osula - who has also been carrying a knock to his ankle - has raised his price tag.
There is also the issue of Wissa still not kicking a ball in black-and-white stripes. As it stands, Osula is the only natural backup option to Nick Woltemade in the No.9 role.
‘A relief’ - Eddie Howe
Howe was grateful for Osula’s last-minute move breaking down when grilled by reporters earlier this week. He said: "The next step for Will was to try and play regularly, so that was the aim, especially with us bringing two strikers in.
"Obviously, it didn't happen - and much to our relief it didn't because Yoane picked up an injury and Will is vitally important. We believe in his talents. He's got speed. You could see that when he came on the pitch the other day.
"He's quick, athletic but, through his continued attitude to training, he's got a better know-how and nous in terms of how to manage game situations. He's benefited from that and coming on the pitch looking like the complete package."