Eddie Howe is expecting to work his magic once again as Newcastle United prepare to enhance their attacking options.
While the potential arrival of Marc Guehi from Crystal Palace has seriously excited Toon fans, it is actually one of two deals that Newcastle United are working on.
Guehi could become one of Newcastle’s most expensive signings ever with a deal worth more than £60million, but another Toon transfer is much closer to completion.
Will Osula to Newcastle transfer is close
Will Osula was in Newcastle for his medical on Monday, ahead of his £15million move from Sheffield United.
The Magpies are set to finally sign another striker, as they provide additional backup for Alexander Isak amid Callum Wilson’s fitness woes.
Newcastle believe they are getting a good deal with Osula, despite the 21-year-old failing to score in the Premier League for Sheffield United last season.
But Newcastle are signing him because of his potential, with Paul Mitchell driving Newcastle’s interest in Osula. He believes that the forward can kick on under the watchful eye of Eddie Howe, and that is a sentiment shared by the Toon boss.
Eddie Howe ready to help Will Osula develop
According to the Athletic, Howe believes that Osula is a player he can grow and develop at Newcastle United.
That is vital, as it is clear that Osula is not at the standard that Newcastle require right now. But he is not arriving to be a starter at St James’ Park. He is arriving to provide cover, before eventually becoming a starter in the future.
Whether or not that happens will be down to how much he improves under Howe. Osula has the tools to progress, and was described as a ‘top athlete’ by Sheffield United expert Lee Connor, who spoke to Geordie Boot Boys about the young forward.
It is an exciting opportunity for Osula, who is joining a growing club that has a manager who is an expert at making players better. It has been the foundation of his success at Newcastle United, with so many players progressing and improving thanks to his coaching.
Osula will not be an overnight success at Newcastle United
Osula will hope that is the case when he becomes a Newcastle United player, but it will take time. Opportunities could be few and far between this season – especially if Wilson remains at the club.
In truth, Wilson staying feels likely following news of Newcastle’s interest in Osula. While he is a bright prospect, it would be a big ask for Osula to be Isak’s main deputy for the 2024/25 season. It feels more likely that Wilson will remain on Tyneside, and Osula will be third choice.
But that should not stunt his development. The hard work will be done on the training ground, where Osula will get to play alongside world class players such as Alexander Isak and Bruno Guimaraes.
He is joining Newcastle at an exciting time, and the foundations are in place for him to achieve his potential at St James’ Park.
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