Newcastle United are ready to let £12 million winger Jacob Murphy leave on loan again with Nottingham Forest and local rivals Middlesbrough interested, according to TEAMtalk.
Considering that Steve Bruce’s attack didn’t exactly set the Premier League alight in 2019/20, the former Norwich City star can probably consider himself a little harshly treated as he prepares for another short-term spell away from St James’ Park.
After all, Murphy was one of the Championship’s most exciting attacking talents last season, scoring nine goals, producing six assists and outshining twin brother Josh at Cardiff City.
It is no wonder Sheffield Wednesday, who will start 2020/21 on minus 12 points, would jump at the chance to re-sign a player who gave Garry Monk something to smile about during a difficult reign at Hillsborough.
“I’ve been delighted with him,” Monk told the Examiner recently.
“I’ve said if there is an opportunity to bring him back next year, we don’t know yet because we’re not even concentrating on that, but if there was then he’s the type of player I want to work with.
“He’s improving and has improved throughout the season.”
Now, Neil Warnock loves nothing more than an old-school winger, except maybe a prolific, 6ft-something centre-half.
And, after he coaxed the mercurial best out of Junior Hoilett and Nathaniel Mendez-Laing at Cardiff, Newcastle could be tempted to hand Murphy over to the man who saved near neighbours Middlesbrough from relegation last season.
Derby County, Stoke City and Nottingham Forest are also interested.
If the City Ground is to be his destination, Murphy should add some much-needed goals and cutting edge in a Forest side who’s strengths lie at the other end of the pitch.
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