Newcastle now identify new Isak alternative – could make his debut against Leeds United

The final days of the summer transfer window are always a tense and uncertain time for any football club, but for Newcastle United, the situation feels especially complicated.

At the heart of it all is the ongoing standoff with striker Alexander Isak, who has made it clear he wants to leave the club but now finds a move away looking increasingly unlikely as the deadline draws near.

For over a month, Isak has been training alone, completely separate from the first-team squad, and has not played a single minute for Newcastle since the end of last season.

This has left manager Eddie Howe in a very difficult position, trying to plan for important matches without his most proven goal scorer.

Behind the scenes, the club’s ownership is working hard to find a solution. Key figures like co-owner Jamie Reuben and PIF representative Jacobo Solis have held talks with Isak at his home, attempting to smooth things over and convince him to reintegrate into the team.

However, so far, the Swedish international has not changed his mind. This leaves everyone in a kind of limbo unsure whether Isak will still be a Newcastle player when the window closes, and equally unsure how he would be received by fans and teammates if he does stay.

This uncertainty comes at a particularly awkward time, as Newcastle prepares for a tough away match against Leeds United this weekend.

To make matters more challenging, the player who had been filling in as an emergency striker, Anthony Gordon, will be unavailable due to a suspension after his red card against Liverpool.

Gordon had started both of Newcastle’s opening Premier League games in the center-forward role, and while he worked hard, it was always clear that he is not a natural in that position. His absence now leaves a significant gap in the team.

In situations like this, managers often turn to young players waiting for their chance, and for Newcastle, that player is Will Osula.

The 22-year-old forward has been patiently developing within the squad since signing over a year ago, and he made a very positive impact when he came off the bench against Liverpool, scoring a crucial goal that briefly leveled the match.

It was a moment that showcased his instincts and composure, and it certainly gave his manager something to think about.

Eddie Howe has been open about the situation, admitting that the club cannot go through the entire season without a recognized striker.

He has also been careful to praise Osula’s progress and attitude, making it clear that he has great faith in the young player’s potential.

At the same time, Howe knows that relying too heavily on a player with limited Premier League experience is a risk, especially for a club with ambitions of competing in the upper half of the table and in European competition.

This is why the club continues to explore options in the transfer market. While a move for a high-profile striker may prove difficult this late in the window, there is still hope that Newcastle can bring in someone who can contribute immediately.

Whether that happens or not, one thing is certain: Will Osula now has a golden opportunity to show what he can do. His goal against Liverpool was not just a consolation—it was a statement.

It reminded everyone that he is ready to compete at this level, and with first-team chances suddenly opening up, he may be about to get the run of games he needs to prove himself.

For Newcastle fans, it’s a nervous wait. They want the club to sign a new striker, but they also want to see young talents like Osula succeed.

Most of all, they want the Isak situation resolved, one way or another, so the team can move forward with clarity and focus.

The next few days will be crucial, but no matter what happens in the boardroom, on the pitch, it might just be Will Osula’s time to shine.