Newcastle United could be facing a big decision heading into the January transfer window, with Will Osula once again at the centre of serious interest from abroad.
The 22-year-old striker was very close to leaving St James’ Park back in September, and the same clubs that came calling then are now circling once more. This time, however, the situation feels more advanced and far more delicate for Eddie Howe and his squad.
Osula’s future was almost decided on summer deadline day when both Aston Villa and Eintracht Frankfurt made moves to sign him. Villa initially appeared to be leading the race, but financial restrictions under UEFA rules stopped Unai Emery’s side from completing the deal.
That opened the door for Frankfurt, who were ready to spend around £30 million to bring the Danish forward to the Bundesliga. Just when the move looked done, talks collapsed after Frankfurt changed their stance and pushed for a season-long loan with an option to buy rather than a permanent transfer. Newcastle were not prepared to accept that structure, and the deal fell apart.
At the time, it felt like a missed opportunity for Osula to secure regular football elsewhere. But within days, events took a dramatic turn that changed Newcastle’s outlook completely.
Yoane Wissa, the club’s £55 million summer signing, suffered a serious posterior cruciate ligament injury while on international duty with DR Congo. Suddenly, keeping Osula at the club became a huge relief rather than a frustration.
Newcastle needed bodies up front, and Osula was forced to battle through an ankle problem to support club-record signing Nick Woltemade in attack.
Unfortunately, Osula’s own injury issues have since caught up with him. The ankle problem worsened, and he has now missed the last 12 matches, leaving Newcastle short of options again.
Despite that setback, the club’s belief in his ability has never really faded, and Eddie Howe has been open about just how close Osula came to leaving and why Newcastle were ultimately glad he stayed.
Howe explained that the club were open to Osula going out on loan because the priority was always his development.
Newcastle felt he needed regular minutes on the pitch rather than just training time, especially after committing to a season where his game time was limited but his work on the training ground was intense.
Howe highlighted the effort Osula put in with Graeme Jones, studying his performances, refining his movement, and learning how to manage different moments in matches. That process, in the manager’s view, has helped shape Osula into a far more complete forward.
According to Howe, Osula’s pace and athleticism were always clear, but what has really improved is his understanding of the game. He now looks calmer, sharper, and more aware when he steps onto the pitch. Even in brief appearances, Howe believes Osula has shown signs that he is developing into a well-rounded striker who can impact games in different ways.
Despite that faith, the reality remains that Osula is currently third choice when everyone is fit. Newcastle also know how quickly that situation can change. Another injury to either Wissa or Woltemade would leave them dangerously short in attack, which makes any decision on Osula’s future a serious risk.
Meanwhile, interest from Frankfurt has not gone away. In fact, it appears to have intensified. Reports from Sky Sport Germany claim Osula has already agreed personal terms with the Bundesliga club as they continue talks with Newcastle over a potential deal.
The proposed structure is believed to be a loan with an option to buy, the same format that caused problems in the summer. Osula is said to be keen on the move and is simply waiting for the two clubs to reach an agreement.
German outlet Bild has gone even further, reporting that Osula has agreed to a five-year contract with Frankfurt, with a salary package worth around €2.5 million per year. While Newcastle have not confirmed any agreement, it underlines how serious Frankfurt are about securing his signature.
As January approaches, Newcastle find themselves walking a fine line. Osula is a player they rate highly and may still need, yet there is also an opportunity to secure a strong deal for a striker who wants regular football. Whether they choose to cash in or keep faith could have a major impact on the second half of their season.
