Report: Scottish clubs are keen on signing Newcastle winger Jacob Murphy; one is likely Celtic

By John McGinley

July 31, 2020

Unnamed Scottish clubs are keen on signing Newcastle United attacker Jacob Murphy this summer, Yorkshire Live has reported this week.

The outlet says that clubs up here are tracking Murphy, who starred on loan at Sheffield Wednesday last term.

Multiple English Championship sides are also reported to be interested in the winger.

He joined Newcastle United from Norwich City for £12m back in 2017 (Sky Sports) but has failed to make significant progress at St. James’ Park.

However, he was one of the Owls’ best players throughout 2019/20, scoring nine goals and assisting six more in 39 league appearances (Transfermarkt).

In the past, he’s also shown consistency at Norwich and Coventry.

Given the financial situation in Scotland, the teams likely interested in Murphy are Celtic and Rangers.

Neil Lennon could do with more wingers in his squad to support James Forrest and Mohamed Elyounoussi.

Mikey Johnston is a confirmed injury absentee in the early stages of the season and Karamoko Dembele has yet to be tested fully in competitive games.

Murphy is capable of playing on both flanks so has the potential to solve that problem.

Are Celtic interested in Jacob Murphy? / (Photo by Serena Taylor/Newcastle United via Getty Images)

Bringing in a player with Championship and Premier League experience could be a shrewd move, especially if it’s on a loan basis.

It gives Lennon the depth he needs, and on a budget, meaning other areas of the team can be focused on with larger resources.

Right now this is a pretty flimsy link to the Hoops but it’ll be interesting to see if something more concrete emerges over the next few weeks, during the Magpies’ off-season.

In other news, Celtic said to still hold a strong interest in Ivan Toney despite a high valuation.