Newcastle United may soon be facing a difficult decision involving young striker William Osula after fresh reports suggested he is open to leaving the club in January. The 22-year-old forward has featured regularly under Eddie Howe this season, playing 14 games across all competitions and scoring three goals.
His involvement has been valuable, especially during a period in which summer signing Yoane Wissa has been out with a knee injury. However, the situation around Osula’s future is becoming more complicated as outside interest grows and as Newcastle evaluate their squad needs for the rest of the campaign.
Rumours in recent weeks have claimed that Osula would like to leave St James’ Park in the winter window, with Eintracht Frankfurt again showing interest after tracking him in the summer.
The German side see him as a player with strong potential, and Osula is reportedly tempted by the idea of more regular football abroad. But sources close to Newcastle have made it clear that any possible departure depends entirely on whether the club can secure a replacement. Without another striker coming in, they are unwilling to even consider a transfer.
Inside the club, the feeling is that it is not impossible for Newcastle to accept an offer for Osula, but nothing is straightforward. Right now, the pathway to an exit remains uncertain because the team still relies on him while Wissa continues his recovery.
Howe has seen genuine progress in the young forward and appreciates both his attitude and the role he has played during this challenging run of injuries. Even though Osula has started only one Premier League match this season, he has stayed ready, worked hard, and contributed when called upon.
Newcastle’s coaching staff believe he has taken meaningful steps forward, which makes the decision even more delicate. Howe is not believed to be actively searching for an upgrade on Osula, and sources insist he rates the player highly.
However, like any ambitious club, Newcastle are always open to opportunities in the market if the right deal is presented. Their recruitment strategy in recent windows has shown that they remain patient but reactive when a player becomes available who fits their long-term plans.
The challenge for Newcastle is that they are not expected to invest heavily in attacking signings in January. The club already spent significant money in the summer bringing in Nick Woltemade and Yoane Wissa, who were both recruited to add goal threat and depth.
Woltemade, aged 23, has settled quickly since his £69m move from Stuttgart, scoring four goals in his first nine Premier League matches. That early impact suggests he could soon become the main striker once he fully adapts to the pace and physicality of English football.
Wissa, meanwhile, has yet to play for Newcastle due to his knee issue, but Howe remains confident in the Congolese forward. After the 29-year-old scored 19 Premier League goals for Brentford last season, Newcastle signed him knowing he would play a major role once fit.
Howe recently explained that Wissa is close to returning but still needs more time as he works with the club’s sports science team. He is effectively undergoing a mini pre-season, building strength and fitness before returning to full training. While he is getting better with each session, the manager still cannot offer a firm date for his comeback.
This uncertainty makes the idea of losing Osula in January risky. Until Wissa is fully available, Newcastle simply cannot afford to weaken their attacking depth.
The club are also under no pressure to sell because Osula is tied to a long-term contract that runs until 2029. This gives them complete control over his future and allows them to decide on their terms, not out of necessity.
For now, the message from within St James’ Park is clear: Osula will not be allowed to leave unless a new striker is signed first. Howe values the young forward, the club recognises his development, and his presence remains important while Wissa finishes his recovery.
Whether an opportunity arises that changes the situation remains to be seen, but Newcastle are not rushing into a decision. Any move will only happen if it strengthens the team, not weakens it.
