Nico Gonzalez is set to make his Newcastle United debut in Saturday's match at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, but manager Matthias Jaissle must decide who leads the attack.
Denmark international William Osula has been ruled out of the Spurs clash with a foot problem and is seeing a specialist. That leaves Jaissle choosing between pushing Yoane Wissa as the main striker or keeping Nick Woltemade in the role after his struggles against West Bromwich Albion.
Midfield options for Gonzalez
If the £50 million arrival from Manchester City is used as one of the two holding midfielders, Jaissle has several options for his partner, with Sean Steur, Lewis Miley, Joe Willock and Jacob Ramsey all competing for a spot.
Gonzalez is ready to play after appearances in pre-season and a cameo in the FA Community Shield two weeks ago, a 3-0 loss to Arsenal in Cardiff.
Injury concerns and transfer plans
Osula's injury has highlighted Newcastle's lack of senior attacking options if further injuries hit the squad. Academy striker Sean Neave remains involved, while Newcastle are monitoring Lille's Matias Fernandez-Pardo and Stuttgart's Bilal El Khannouss.
Sporting director Ross Wilson is in dialogue with Fernandez-Pardo and Lille, and talks could continue until deadline day. Club insiders say Newcastle are not finished in the window after Gonzalez's arrival.
After signing the former FC Porto star, Wilson said: "We believe he brings a range of qualities that will complement our team, and his experience across some of Europe’s top competitions will only be of benefit to Newcastle United."
Jaissle's demands and new era
Neave is expected to be loaned out, with a cash signing in the forward department likely. Just over two weeks ago, Jaissle called for a midfielder and a right-back, and the board delivered. At his press conference, he made clear he won't settle for what he has.
With another £50 million expected available and the club's financial chief Simon Capper present, Jaissle said: "I will push every day."
If the window closes with two more additions plus the seven other signings, it will signal a new Newcastle United for the 2026/27 season. After Tottenham lost heavily at Brentford last Saturday, they now face a refreshed Gonzalez eager for his debut.
