The young striker has been a real success at Boundary Park scoring three times in six games and impressing many observers with his link-up play and aerial ability.
However, if he is to stay with Latics two things have to happen.
Firstly, the club has a transfer embargo and have to obtain special dispensation from the Football League for the deal to be ratified. That shouldn’t be a problem.
But more worryingly Oldham Athletic’s administrators have warned them that they face the very real prospect of closing on Monday unless they find an investor.
If Zola returns to Newcastle next week there will be a queue of clubs willing to take him on loan to continue his first team development, but if Latics fold the lives of thousands of people will be affected.
Good luck to Oldham in their efforts to find a last-minute reprieve.