On Monday afternoon, Callum Wilson announced his departure from Newcastle United after five memorable seasons.
It was an emotional message from the 33-year-old, but one that many had seen coming since the final day of the season.
Callum Wilson left the St James’ Park pitch in tears after the final game of the season, many believed that was his way of saying goodbye to the Newcastle United fans.
However, it took over a month for the news to be confirmed after reports that Newcastle had offered Wilson a new deal. The contract was believed to be on a pay-as-you-play basis, incentivising good form and fitness.
Despite the offer, Wilson has decided to leave Newcastle after five seasons and 49 goals. The attention now turns to who will replace Wilson following his exit. inews reporter Mark Douglas has made a suggestion on who could be the new second-choice striker on Tyneside.
William Osula celebrates after scoring his first Premier League goal for Newcastle United against Ipswich Town.
Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images
William Osula likely to become Newcastle United’s second-choice striker
Despite Champions League qualification, William Osula may be a little bit upset with his 2024/25 season. The Dane did not make a single Premier League start for the Magpies, despite showing glimpses of promise in his substitute appearances and FA Cup starts.
However, Osula was sensational with Denmark’s Under-21s at the European Championships in Slovakia last month, scoring three goals and bagging two assists in four games.
In an interview during the tournament, Osula said that he wants to play more often for Newcastle, stating that he knows what he is capable of. It now looks like Osula has moved up the pecking order on Tyneside, as Douglas believes he will now be the second-choice striker following Wilson’s departure.
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“In terms of a Callum Wilson ‘replacement’ I suspect Will Osula now becomes next in line with #nufc looking at someone with similar versatility to Joao Pedro who can play through the middle as well as other roles.
“It’s pressure on Osula given how lightly he was used last year but he needs opportunities. Definitely a player there IMO.”
In terms of a Callum Wilson 'replacement' I suspect Will Osula now becomes next in line with #nufc looking at someone with similar versatility to Joao Pedro who can play through the middle as well as other roles.
It's pressure on Osula given how lightly he was used last year…
— Mark Douglas (@MsiDouglas) July 7, 2025
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Newcastle United are working on a Callum Wilson replacement
Like Douglas says, there will be a lot of pressure on Osula if he is to become the second-choice striker next season. It could mean more starts and more appearances in the Champions League than first expected.
Despite that, Newcastle still want to sign a striker, but there is a catch.
Whoever comes to the club will likely be a player with the same ability and play style as Joao Pedro, who rejected the Magpies for Chelsea. That means this new player will be a versatile option that can play in other areas of the pitch.
Despite that, Newcastle are linked with a move for Dominic Calvert-Lewin after he left Everton upon the expiry of his contract. Talks have taken place between the Magpies and the England international over a move.
If Calvert-Lewin does join this summer, it remains to be seen whether he would become the second-choice or if Eddie Howe will give Osula his chance.