William Osula’s deadline day move to Eintracht Frankfurt collapsed at the last moment after Newcastle United's Saudi owners intervened when the Bundesliga side walked back on a deal that was virtually agreed. Now, with Yoane Wissa sidelined through injury, the 22-year-old has stayed put, hit form in the Carabao Cup, and emerged as an unlikely top scorer so far.
What went wrong with Frankfurt's Osula deal?
A permanent deal worth around £30 million ($40m) was close to completion before Frankfurt wanted to switch the terms to a loan with an option to buy. As per the , Newcastle still looked ready to accept until Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund, the club's majority owner, pulled the plug. Despite a proposed loan fee exceeding £6m, the feeling was that the new structure of the deal favoured the German side more.
AdvertisementGetty ImagesOsula's fortune changing at Newcastle after Wissa's injury
Osula's non-transfer has quickly turned into a blessing for Newcastle after Wissa's injury. The Danish forward has featured in all five league games and scored three times across all competitions. Without his goals, Eddie Howe's side might have been left even more exposed after a poor attacking start to the campaign.
Getty Images SportDoes Howe view Osula as a starter over Woltemade?
The 22-year-old netted twice in a 4-1 Carabao Cup win over Bradford, becoming Newcastle’s top scorer so far this season. His rise has surprised many, given he only joined from Sheffield United a year ago. Now, Howe must weigh up whether to start him against Arsenal or turn back to club record signing Nick Woltemade.
Newcastle up against Arsenal next
Osula's form gives Howe a welcome selection dilemma heading into the clash with Arsenal. Confidence is high, and the Dane is expected to play a part regardless of his starting status. What looked like a lost opportunity on deadline day could yet help define Newcastle's season.
