adminNewcastle United could be facing another late transfer headache on deadline day, with one of the club’s longest-serving players now attracting interest from a Premier League rival.
The Magpies are already dealing with uncertainty surrounding Nick Woltemade’s potential loan move to Juventus, but he may not be the only Newcastle player whose future could change before the transfer window closes.
Nottingham Forest have reportedly made an enquiry about veteran winger Jacob Murphy, putting his situation under the spotlight with just hours remaining in the window.
Murphy, 31, is currently Newcastle’s longest-serving player after joining the club from Norwich City for £12million in 2017.
His Newcastle career did not get off to the easiest start. The winger struggled to establish himself in the team and subsequently spent time on loan at West Bromwich Albion and Sheffield Wednesday, leading to suggestions that his days at St James’ Park could be numbered.
However, Murphy’s fortunes changed dramatically under former manager Eddie Howe.
The winger enjoyed a renaissance and became an important member of the Newcastle squad, particularly in recent seasons.
Despite Forest’s reported interest, Newcastle are not actively looking to sell Murphy at this stage. However, it is understood that the club may have been open to the possibility of a departure earlier in the window.
The timing could now become significant.
With Matthias Jaissle preparing his squad for the season ahead, losing another right-wing option would leave Newcastle with fewer natural choices in the position.
Anthony Elanga is currently the only other recognised natural option on the right, while Harvey Barnes and Will Osula can also fill in when required.
New £51million signing Matias Fernandez-Pardo could provide another alternative. The Belgian is capable of operating from the right but is understood to prefer a more central role.
That could make Murphy’s situation one to watch closely as the deadline approaches.
There is also another factor Newcastle must consider.
Murphy has just one year remaining on his current contract, meaning the Magpies could face the risk of losing him for nothing if no agreement is reached over a new deal.
For now, Newcastle are not actively pushing Murphy towards the exit door, but a significant offer from Forest could potentially change the situation.
With the club already working on potential departures, including Woltemade’s expected loan move to Juventus, the final hours of the transfer window could prove extremely busy for Newcastle.
And Murphy’s name is now one Newcastle fans will certainly be watching.
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Abdulhafiz Teslim
