The Newcastle United hitman could be the ideal summer signing for Sunderland.
Magpies striker Daryl Murhy played a peripheral role in his side’s campaign last term, and could very well be on his way out of St James’ Park this summer, with Rafa Benitez thought to be interested in bringing a top-class striker to the club.
One potential destination for the 34-year-old could be the Stadium of Light, after former Black Cats boss Mick McCarthy suggested that a move to Sunderland would suit all parties concerned, during an interview with the Ipswich Star:
“If I was the new Sunderland manager I would take him there because he’s living in the North East and he is a very good Championship player. Someone of that (Sunderland) ilk, with the ability to pay those sort of wages, will have the ability to do it.”
Newcastle United’s Daryl Murphy celebrates
But would Newcastle really sell the Republic of Ireland forward to their fiercest rivals?
Well firstly, the Tyneside outfit are one division above the Wearsiders, so there is no direct competition scheduled next season, unless they meet in the either of the two cups of course, and therefore, the Magpies will not have to worry about Murphy coming back to haunt them.
Secondly, if Rafa Benitez is serious about bringing some blockbuster signings to St James’ Park this summer, getting the 34-year-old’s £25,000 per week salary off the wage bill would certainly free up some much needed funds.
And Murphy could be the ideal acquisition for Simon Grayson, should he manage to convince Rafa to sell the Irishman to Sunderland.
He is highly experienced at Championship level, and despite his advancing years, his tireless work ethic combined with his burly frame would surely prove to be a major asset to the Black Cats.
His impressive record during his time at Ipswich Town, where he scored 50 goals in 127 league outings, underlines his ability in front of goal, and that kind of attacking output could make all the difference for the Wearside outfit next term.
Murphy has just one year remaining on his current deal at St James’ Park, so he shouldn’t prove to be too costly, if Newcastle are willing to do business with Sunderland.
And if Grayson does manage to bring him to Wearside, it could turn out to be a signing of real significance for the Black Cats.
Newcastle United’s Daryl Murphy celebrates
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