Newcastle: Eddie Howe ‘adamant’ over Jacob Murphy despite contract concerns
Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe is “adamant” that he wants winger Jacob Murphy to remain as part of his squad for next season, sources have told Football Insider.
The 31-year-old’s contract situation is a growing concern at St James’ Park, as he is set to enter the final year of his current deal on Tyneside in the summer.
Nevertheless, Howe is determined to keep hold of the former Norwich City man, with sources indicating that he still views him as a crucial part of his squad in the North East.
Murphy has seen his form dip drastically after he notched a career-best 20 Premier League goal contributions last term, but the boss still has plenty of faith in his ability to perform.
Newcastle are facing a big overhaul to their squad ahead of next season, but Howe is keen to ensure that continuity remains with the likes of Murphy.
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Murphy has already reached the milestone of 40 appearances for the Magpies across all competitions this season, and Howe has still relied upon him heavily at times.
Newcastle have recently confirmed their decision to allow Kieran Trippier to leave the club as a free agent at the end of the campaign, and Murphy could now be heading towards the same fate in 2027.
| Murphy 2025-26 | Stats | Murphy 2024-25 |
| 27 (15) | Apps (Starts) | 35 (31) |
| 4 | G/A | 20 |
| 0.27 | G/A per 90 | 0.75 |
| 1.28 | Chances Created per 90 | 1.59 |
| 1.21 | Successful Dribbles per 90 | 1.32 |
| 0.81 | Shots on Target per 90 | 0.57 |
Clubs are often keen to offload stars who are entering the final year of their contracts to ensure that they recoup some money for their services, but the Magpies have taken a slightly different stance of late.
Howe’s view that he doesn’t want to lose Murphy this summer is set to see him and the club run the risk of him departing for free at the end of next season, if the player decides that he is ready for a new challenge elsewhere.
Murphy has faced criticism from supporters for his performances at times this season, but that is not reflected by Howe, who still sees him as an important piece of the puzzle.
Newcastle on the scene as bid submitted for new winger
Murphy could be about to see his competition grow further next season, with Newcastle among the leaders to sign William Gomes from Porto this summer.
The Geordies are one of the clubs at the front of the queue to sign the 20-year-old, while reports are Spain now indicating that a bid has already been submitted ahead of the upcoming window.
Gomes has struck eight league goals for Porto from just 24 appearances this season, and they have already set a lofty valuation of £60million on him ahead of the summer.
Newcastle spent heavily on attacking reinforcements last year for little reward, and they will be desperately hoping that their business can be more impactful this time around.
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