Newcastle boss Howe acknowledges 'work needs to be done' on £10M exciting prodigy

The summer transfer window was an underwhelming one for Newcastle United. With the club failing to materialize the deals of two highly desired reinforcements, Marc Guehi, and Anthony Elanga, Eddie Howe was forced to enter the new season with almost the same roster. However, the club did sign some shining prospects, with an aim for a brighter future.

Newcastle boss Howe acknowledges 'work needs to be done' on £10M exciting prodigy

One such case was of prodigy forward William Osula. Signed in August, this summer, the 21-year-old prodigy completed a £10M move from Sheffield to the Tyneside club. However, unlike many had expected, the player's purchase was finalized with an aim for the future, improvising the prodigy forward at home. Understandably, the forward has seen rare first-team appearances this season.

So far in this 2024/25 campaign, Osula has had a single-game start against Wimbledon in the Carabao Cup fixture. Although the 21-year-old looked improved from the level he arrived at the Magpies club, it was clearly visible that the player needs significant improvisations to turn into the final product manager Eddie Howe is aiming for. Recently, the English manager opened up on the same, highlighting chances of significant improvement.

Speaking on the Adopted Geordies Podcast, the Newcastle boss mentioned about William Osula,

"“There were flashes of his ability [against Wimbledon], but there’s work to be done. He knows that. But he’s an exciting player.”"

- Eddie Howe

While the manager was wise enough to acknowledge the player's improvement aspects, he didn't hesitate to call him one of the most exciting prospects as well. While certainly the player needs refinement to compete in one of the most competitive leagues, the PL, the 21-year-old prodigy did reflect signs of a brilliant prospect on his debut start against Wimbledon.

However, a lot more depends on how the player progresses during his time at the Magpies club, with the staff and manager Eddie Howe guiding their best to the youngster. Newcastle fans would hope that William Osula goes on to become one of the club's best forwards, marking his legacy at the Magpies club.