Why Sheffield United will be keeping a close eye on Newcastle United transfer saga amid potential cash boost
Why Sheffield United will be keeping a close eye on Newcastle United transfer saga amid potential cash boost
Sheffield United would be forgiven for keeping a close eye on developments in the North East when the January sales begin next month, amid hopes of a potential cash boost at Bramall Lane. The Blades are focusing on their own work in what has been pinpointed as a key month in their season turnaround.
But they also have financial irons in the fire elsewhere, with speculation over the future of their former youngster Will Osula at Newcastle United. The Danish youth international made the move to the Magpies last summer in a deal worth up to £15m with add-ons.
Crucially, as part of the deal, the Blades also negotiated a sell-on clause to retain an interest in Osula’s development. That was close to being triggered earlier this summer when German club Eintracht Frankfurt registered their interest, but a deal in the mooted £30m range didn’t end up happening.
It did nothing to end speculation that the Dane may move on in the future, however, after starting just one Premier League game for Eddie Howe’s side since making the move north. The Athletic now report that Newcastle may cash in on him in January, if they can secure another young striker to replace him.
Frankfurt are understood to be interested in an initial loan deal for Osula, with a potential option to make the move permanent in the future. Figures in the region of a €3m loan fee and a €20m option have been mentioned.
A share of any profit made by the Magpies wouldn’t be sniffed at at Bramall Lane, while some transfers often see the remaining add-ons triggered if a player is subsequently sold. Either way, it still seems very good business from the Blades to already make multi-millions on a player - who could yet generate them even more.