Newcastle United’s pursuit of new attacking options could reshape their forward depth chart this summer while creating a bit of uncertainty around the role of promising young forward William Osula.
According to ChronicleLive’s Aaron Stokes, Newcastle’s push for reinforcements up front could limit Osula’s minutes next season, despite his recent success with Denmark’s Under-21 national team.
That, of course, might not please the youngster as he keeps trying to find a place in the team and earn first-team minutes, albeit obviously as Alexander Isak’s backup.
Osula, who joined from Sheffield United, logged just 124 Premier League minutes last term and has publicly called for more regular opportunities, which might come his way if a new weapon arrives in Tyneside throughout the summer.
“I just need playing time to show what I can do,” Osula said at the end of the season. “When playing time comes, everyone will see what I can do on the pitch.”
Denmark U21 coach Steffen Hojer backed his player’s comments, calling on Eddie Howe to give the forward more playing time. But with Newcastle actively targeting additions in his primary position—on the right flank—Osula may be crowded out once again and, in a worst-case scenario for the Magpies, might look for a way out in the shape of a loan deal.
After missing out on Bryan Mbeumo and Joao Pedro, however, Newcastle haven’t had much success in the market and have turned their attention to Nottingham Forest’s Anthony Elanga.
Coincidentally, Osula has spent part of the offseason with Elanga, which has fueled speculation of the latter’s potential arrival and Osula’s willingness to say in Tyneside as long as that’s with his friend in tow.
At the same time, it’s reasonable for Newcastle to seek a new backup striker as Callum Wilson’s expected to leave the club.
Osula, who has just one Premier League goal to his name, is not currently viewed as the primary deputy to Alexander Isak, but more of a long-term project.
A loan move remains a possibility, but for now, Howe is reportedly hoping to retain Osula if only to have some squad depth, especially with Champions League, domestic cups, and Premier League games on next season’s schedule.