Eddie Howe admits failed transfer actually helped Newcastle

Robin Bairner

• 27 Sep 2025 12:00 CDT
• 3 min read

News

Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe has admitted that his side have been helped tremendously this season by a deal that did not happen.

The Magpies’ summer was dominated by the Alexander Isak saga, with the striker ultimately getting his desired move to Liverpool late in the transfer window.

While Newcastle were incensed by the behaviour of the Sweden international striker, but while this drama was being played out, the possibility of William Osula departing St James’ Park was very real.

Current ETV

William Osula

F (C)

Newcastle

William Osula

F (C)

Newcastle

€10.3M

ETV Range

€9.3M - €11.4M

View full profile

Aston Villa made a bid worth €32.5m (£28.5m) for the 22-year-old Osula, but their Deadline Day offer did not produce a deal. Bundesliga giants Eintracht Frankfurt were also interested in the Dane but were not willing to match the Geordies’ asking price.

Howe is grateful for that outcome now, with Newcastle only otherwise boasting Nick Woltemade as a natural centre-forward option as Yoane Wissa is currently out with a knee injury.

"The thing with Will and his situation is that we felt that he needed to play regularly after last season's year of development," Howe said.

"He really focused on all aspects of his game. That move didn't happen, to our benefit and I think to Will's benefit.

"He is getting opportunities to step on the pitch. I was really pleased with him on Wednesday."

Osula has three more games to star

Osula bagged a double in a 4-1 midweek win over Bradford, adding to a goal he had already claimed against Liverpool in the Premier League in August when Isak was still in the midst of his strike.

With Wissa expected back by the time Newcastle travel to Brighton following the international break, it is essential that Osula makes his mark when he has the opportunity.

Howe’s side still have to play Arsenal, Union Saint-Gilloise and Nottingham Forest before their next free week, giving the young forward potentially three more chances to shine.

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