Newcastle Face Another Potential Departure as Murphy Attracts Everton Interest

Newcastle United may be set to lose another squad member this summer, with Jacob Murphy reportedly on Everton’s radar. According to talkSPORT, the Toffees are monitoring the 29-year-old winger’s situation at St James’ Park as Eddie Howe’s side face mounting uncertainty over their squad composition ahead of the 2025-26 campaign.

Context: A Summer of Transition on Tyneside

The potential exit of Murphy would add to a growing list of departures from Newcastle this summer. The club has already seen several players leave or be linked with moves away, raising questions about squad depth and continuity. Murphy, who has been with the Magpies since 2017, has made over 150 appearances for the club, contributing goals and assists from the flanks. His versatility—capable of playing on either wing or as a wing-back—has made him a useful squad player under Howe, but regular first-team opportunities have been limited, with the likes of Miguel Almirón, Harvey Barnes, and Anthony Gordon often preferred.

Tactically, Murphy’s departure would reduce Newcastle’s width and depth in wide areas. Howe’s system relies heavily on full-backs and wingers providing crosses into the box, and Murphy has been a reliable option for delivering set pieces and creating chances from the right flank. Without him, the burden would fall on Gordon and Barnes to maintain attacking impetus, while young prospects like Yankuba Minteh (if retained) or Elliot Anderson (if deployed wide) could see increased roles. However, the loss of an experienced squad player could affect rotation during a congested fixture schedule, particularly if Newcastle qualify for European competition again.

Impact on Club and Player

For Newcastle, the financial aspect is also relevant. Murphy is not a marquee name, but any transfer fee received would help the club manage Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR), especially after significant spending in recent windows. The reported interest from Everton suggests a potential move could materialise before the transfer deadline, with the Toffees looking to strengthen under manager Sean Dyche’s pragmatic system. For Murphy, a switch to Goodison Park would offer a fresh start and likely more regular playing time, which could be appealing as he approaches his 30s.

  • FPL Impact: Murphy is currently owned by just 1.2% of Fantasy Premier League managers, priced at £5.0m. His departure from Newcastle would make him a non-factor for FPL, while Everton’s midfield options—such as Dwight McNeil or Jack Harrison—could see reduced minutes if Murphy arrives.
  • Club Depth: Newcastle would need to replace Murphy’s squad role. Options include promoting from within (e.g., teenager Amadou Diallo) or dipping into the market for a budget wide player.
  • Relegation Battle: Everton finished 15th last season, just five points above the drop zone. Adding proven Premier League quality like Murphy could be crucial for their survival hopes, especially given his work rate and experience.

What’s Next for Murphy and Newcastle?

The coming weeks will be decisive. With the transfer window open until late August, Newcastle must decide whether to cash in on Murphy or retain him for depth. If Everton formalise their interest with a bid—likely in the region of £5-8m given his age and contract length—the club may be tempted to sell. For the player, a move to Everton would offer stability and a clear role under Dyche, who values hard-working wingers who can track back. Meanwhile, Newcastle’s squad planning hangs in the balance as they juggle multiple potential exits while aiming to build on last season’s seventh-place finish.

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