Newcastle United must be patient before seeing Yoane Wissa light up St. James’ Park with the first of what promises to be many goals in black and white.

The DR Congo striker arrived this summer for £55m, departing Brentford after years of consistent returns. As the Bees’ top Premier League scorer, he left quite the mark. Sadly, he is out for several weeks after sustaining a knee issue during international duty earlier this month.

Though the setback hurts, Nick Woltemade adapted to the Premier League instantly over the weekend, and his presence hints that Alexander Isak’s tough sale to Liverpool might yet be absorbed.

Why Newcastle targeted Woltemade

The Magpies smashed their transfer record with a £69m move for Woltemade from Stuttgart. The 23-year-old forward brings an unusual profile and notched 12 Bundesliga goals last season despite starting just 17 matches.

If he can match Isak’s ruthless streak remains uncertain, but he began brightly with a towering header against Wolves on Saturday, clinching Newcastle’s maiden win of the campaign.

Labelled an “entertainer” by Bundesliga analyst Archie Rhind-Tutt, the 6’6 striker showed his all-round attributes: Sofascore tracked five ground duels won, three tackles made and eight of nine passes completed against Wolves.

Now the challenge lies in sustaining form, with Howe aware that steady internal competition could push him further. The German appears ready to lead the line, but still requires rival pressure.

With Wissa sidelined for weeks, however, an exciting chance has opened for another starlet to contest Woltemade for the number nine role.

Newcastle youngster prepared to rival Woltemade

Until Newcastle’s clash with Liverpool last month, William Osula had offered little evidence on the senior scene that he could emerge as the club’s main striker.

Yet the 22-year-old stood out when introduced on that fiery night, racing beyond Liverpool’s defence to net, which drew Howe’s praise about his “outstanding” progress since joining Newcastle.

Tall, dynamic and instinctive, he was once likened by ex-teammate Curtis Davies to “a budget Haaland,” and there is indeed a likeness to City’s lethal forward, the finest finisher in football today.

He certainly has the swagger and presence of a star like Haaland, and if Howe extracts consistency, he could rival Woltemade just as much as Wissa this season.

Since leaving Sheffield United for Tyneside in August 2024, Osula has developed rapidly, his skillset now demanding opportunities in the Premier League.

With only 23 senior Newcastle outings, the French-born striker has contributed three goals and two assists, opening his account in England’s top flight.

Encouraging signs abound, and Howe appears convinced the youngster could be challenging Woltemade’s starting spot sooner than expected.