Premier League Newcastle United are set to make a shock move for Sheffield United’s young striker Will Osula, according to reports.
The 20-year-old is a product of the Blades’ academy set up having joined in 2018 from FC Copenhagen’s youth. He progressed through the ranks making a handful of cameo appearances in the Championship before leaving for Derby County on loan in January 2023.
The Rams were, at the time in League One and the youngster made 21 appearances scoring five times.
Following Sheffield United’s promotion to the top flight, Osula began to appear semi-regularly in the Premier League as a second half substitute, and even started on nine occasions. The forward also recorded three goals in the FA Cup, two against Gillingham and one in their 5-2 defeat to Brighton and Hove Albion.
Now, according to Alan Nixon, the ambitious Magpies have taken a fancy to the centre-forward. The Blades are keen on keeping hold of the player, and have set a £10 million price tag to deter the Premier League side.
Newcastle reportedly see him as a developmental player, who would become a third-choice striker and allowed time to grow into the role before taking on a starting position.
Hungry Young Talent
Despite their riches, Newcastle United have not gone for the Chelsea approach and have targeted more sensible realistic signings that they can nurture and bring into the squad through developmental pathways. Osula fits that bill perfectly, at just 20 years old he is pre-peak but already has some experience of Premier League football. If he continues his development further then they could land a top striker for a relatively low fee, or cash in a huge profit if another club takes a look.
It is understandable that the Blades are not keen on losing one of their young emerging stars before he hits his peak, if they keep hold of him he could develop into a much more valuable asset or even be a key player for them for years to come.