Newcastle United could be set to lose as many as eight first team players this summer. A squad overhaul is long overdue. And Jacob Murphy might be among the casualties.
The 31 year old winger has been a favourite of Eddie Howe since he arrived at the club. He’s one of those players who improved dramatically under the current boss. But consistency? That’s always been his achilles heel.
When he’s good, he’s very good. When he’s poor, he’s terrible. And Newcastle need more consistency going forward.
‘Newcastle will listen to offers’
According to a reliable source, the Magpies will listen to offers for Murphy this summer as they look to raise funds for a summer spending spree.
No names of any interested clubs. So he could still be at St James’ Park next season yet. But the signal is clear: if someone comes in with a decent bid, Newcastle won’t stand in his way.
The bigger picture
Murphy isn’t alone. Kieran Trippier and Emil Krafth are already confirmed to be leaving. Anthony Gordon and Joe Willock look to be heading for the exit too. The rumours around Gordon moving to Germany aren’t going away.
That’s potentially four more. Plus Murphy. Plus others. Eight first team players. A serious rebuild.
Sentiment vs reality
There’s a lot of love for Murphy at Newcastle. He’s always good for a chuckle. A top grafter. A player who gave everything.
But sentimentality can’t detract from the fact that he’s not good enough for where the club are trying to get to.
He’s just not at the right level. Unfortunately.
The silver lining
If Murphy does leave this summer, he’ll always have one thing: he won a trophy with the club he grew up supporting.
That’s more than most players ever achieve.
The bottom line
Newcastle need to raise funds. They need to upgrade the squad. And Murphy, for all his effort and personality, is one of the players who makes way.
It’s not personal. It’s football.
The club are moving in a new direction. And Murphy, sadly, doesn’t fit the long term picture.
A good servant. A fan favourite. But probably not a Newcastle player come September.
