Newcastle United have struggled to maintain the high standards they established following the club’s takeover in 2021.
The Magpies finished 12th in the Premier League this season after another disappointing defeat to Fulham this weekend, missing out on qualification for European football.
While supporters will understandably be frustrated by the absence of European competition next season, it could ultimately prove to be a blessing in disguise if the club use the opportunity to rebuild properly and refocus on creating a squad capable of competing consistently across multiple competitions.
The departure of Alexander Isak had a significant impact on both Newcastle’s recruitment plans and tactical structure this season, so ensuring history does not repeat itself over the coming months will be imperative.
Anthony Gordon’s future is also expected to be resolved quickly, with both Arsenal and Bayern Munich interested in signing the winger this summer, allowing Eddie Howe and the recruitment team to focus on identifying replacements and building a squad fully committed to the club’s long-term future on Tyneside.
Despite being open to Gordon’s departure, fresh reports suggest Newcastle will take a far firmer stance regarding other players attracting interest from across Europe.
According to Football Insider, Newcastle are prepared to reject any approaches for striker William Osula.
The report claims Aston Villa are keen on signing the Danish forward this summer, but his recent form for the Magpies has strengthened the club’s determination to keep hold of him.
Speaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, Pete O’Rourke revealed:
“It’s going to be very difficult for Aston Villa or anybody else to get him out now.”
“You’d probably say Osula is the first choice striker for Eddie Howe now. As of right now, I don’t think Newcastle will even be considering letting Osula go.”
“He’s still only 22, under contract until 2029 as well. Newcastle are very happy with Osula’s progress.”
Should Newcastle sell Osula?
There is no doubt that the departures of both Isak and Callum Wilson have left a huge goalscoring void in Newcastle’s squad this season.
Only Sunderland, Crystal Palace, Burnley, Wolverhampton Wanderers and West Ham United scored fewer goals than Newcastle’s tally of 47 in the Premier League this season, with three of those clubs suffering relegation on the final day.
Eddie Howe has endured a difficult time trying to get the best out of new additions Nick Woltemade and Yoane Wissa, but over the last few months Osula has emerged as a bright spark by taking full advantage of his opportunities in the starting eleven.
The 22-year-old – once described as “exciting” by former Newcastle forward Peter Lovenkrands – has scored nine goals and registered one assist this season, averaging a goal contribution every 125 minutes.
While his overall output has not yet reached elite levels, the potential has always been there for Osula to grow into a long-term replacement for Isak if given the opportunity and trust to continue developing.
With that in mind, retaining Osula this summer should be an easy decision for Newcastle.
His development, age profile and growing importance within Howe’s system could make him one of the club’s most valuable assets over the coming years, particularly as they attempt to rebuild and return to competing at the highest level once again.
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