Report: Will Osula is no longer the most likely to leave Newcastle United in January

Written on Friday, 02 January 2026
James Rutherford

Will Osula could leave Newcastle United in January, but he is not actually the most likely Toon departure.

The 22-year-old almost left Newcastle United during the summer transfer window, and rumours regarding a move away have continued heading into 2026.

It has been reported that Osula is likely to leave Newcastle United alongside Joe Willock, with Eintracht Frankfurt and Aston Villa showing an interest in the 2024 signing.

But while a decision over Osula’s Newcastle United future is expected soon, there is actually someone considered even more likely than him to exit St James’ Park this month.

Who is the one player Newcastle United should SELL in January?

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Jamaal Lascelles could leave Newcastle United

The player in question is Jamaal Lascelles, who has made just two Toon appearances this season.

The club captain has not even been on the bench since 9th November, and could soon be calling time on his Newcastle United career.

That is according to the Daily Mail, who have reported that Jamaal Lascelles is the most likely first-team player to leave the club during the January transfer window.

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The 32-year-old is now in the final six months of his Newcastle contract, with an extension not seemingly on the horizon.

With just two substitute appearances to his name this season, Lascelles is seeking regular first-team football. Unfortunately for him, he is not going to get that under Eddie Howe.

Jamaal Lascelles deserves a proper Newcastle United send-off

Lascelles is currently Newcastle United’s longest-serving player.

He joined the club in August 2024 from Nottingham Forest, as part of a double deal that would see him and Karl Darlow return to the City Ground for a 12-month loan spell.

Jamaal Lascelles could LEAVE Newcastle United in January! What are your favourite memories of his career at the club?

That PSG game has to be up there 😍

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After just one season in the Newcastle United first-team, Lascelles was given the captaincy by Rafa Benitez. It is an honour he has retained ever since, despite slipping down the pecking order.

While Lascelles’ influence has waned since the PIF takeover, he has still been involved in some major moments. He started the famous 4-1 victory over Paris Saint-Germain, while he lifted the Carabao Cup trophy in March 2025 alongside Bruno Guimaraes and Kieran Trippier.

He has played 253 times for Newcastle United, from the Championship to the Champions League. Lascelles has had an extraordinary Toon career, and was an outstanding leader during the challenging final years of the Mike Ashley era.

Given his contributions, Lascelles deserves a proper send-off. He should be given the chance to say goodbye to the Toon Army, whether that is one last game for the Magpies or just appearing in front of supporters in some capacity at St James’ Park.