Sunderland are one of six clubs who have been tracking in-form Oxford United winger Josh Murphy, who scored and assisted in the U’s 5-0 hammering of Peterborough on Saturday as they hunt for promotion.
The twin brother of Newcastle star Jacob, is available on a free transfer this summer as his contract expires with Des Buckingham’s side in late June, and as such the wideman who was once valued at an eight-figure sum during his time at Cardiff, is being tracked by many second tier sides given his scintillating form of late which has fired the U’s into the League One play-off places.
According to The Sun, scouts from Wearside as well as Southampton, West Brom, QPR, Hull and MLS side Minnesota were all present at the Kassam Stadium to witness the 29-year-old’s dazzling display. The left-winger, who can also be deployed through the middle or wide-right, has found the net twice and set up three goals in his last three outings, as Murphy continues to spearhead United’s red hot run of form.
Oxford will do all in their power to keep him, according to manager Buckingham, who stated of the in-form wideman following The Posh’s victory: “He loves being in and around this club, and we’ll do everything we can to keep him.” He’s quite relaxed, and if he continues up his performance, I’m confident he’ll attract attention.”
If Sunderland loses star player Jack Clarke in the summer, the former England youth international could be a suitable replacement, but the Black Cats will have to compete with offers from some of the second tier’s biggest clubs, including Southampton and Albion, to secure Murphy’s signature. Sunderland’s recruitment model focuses on younger players, it could be conceivable the Black Cats look elsewhere.
However, given Murphy’s lack of a transfer cost, as well as his experience and goal threat, the deal appears to be a smart one for Sunderland to pursue, especially in light of 15-goal man Clarke’s more inevitable departure.
