Report: Middlesbrough confident about loaning Newcastle’s Jacob Murphy

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Middlesbrough reportedly believe that they lead the chase for the Newcastle United winger, also on West Bromwich Albion’s radar.

According to a report from Teesside Live, Middlesbrough are optimistic that they will see off competition from West Brom to sign Newcastle winger Jacob Murphy on loan in the final hours of the January transfer window.

Murphy is attracting plenty of attention this month. He has struggled since moving to St James’ Park, but he was previously incredibly impressive during his time with Norwich City, so it is probably not a big surprise to see some of the Championship promotion-chasers eyeing a move.

Teesside Live reports that Tony Pulis enquired about the £11 million youngster earlier in the window, and was told by Newcastle that he would be available if Rafa Benitez managed to get a replacement in.

The report adds that West Brom have since joined the race for his signature, but Boro remain confident that they can complete a deal ahead of Darren Moore’s side.

If Murphy does move in the next couple of days, his decision could clearly have some implications for the promotion race with West Brom and Boro fourth and fifth in the table respectively.

There are just three points between the pair, and neither can be discounted from the automatic-promotion discussion by any means. So landing Murphy would arguably be a major statement of intent from either of his reported admirers.