Stefan Borson 'surprised' by latest on Newcastle senior player's future

Newcastle United extending Jacob Murphy's contract will have very little to do with protecting the veteran winger's transfer value.

That is according to former Manchester City financial adviser Stefan Borson, who exclusively told Football Insider that the decision to offer fresh terms is a "surprising" one from the Magpies.

Supporters exploded when Newcastle turned down Nottingham Forest's £15million bid for the 31-year-old, who has endured a tough start to the 2026-27 campaign.

In a strange turn of events, the player has gone from nearly being sold to being in advanced talks over a new deal, with his current one expiring next summer.

Newcastle are said to be confident of reaching an agreement with Murphy, much to the disdain of the fans, and it is not a move that makes much sense.

Murphy will nearly be 32 years of age when the next transfer window opens, so there will be a very small resale value left.

'Matthias Jaissle wants Jacob Murphy to stay'

Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, Borson admitted to being surprised by the news, but suggested that Matthias Jaissle wants the player around for the long term.

"It's not usually that big a deal with a player of his market value. So I'm slightly surprised. He's 31," he said.

"Resale value, I don't think, is top of the list. He'll be 32 years old in February. So I don't think it's about resale value.

"If they offer him a new contract, it's because they want him to stay and they rate him more highly than the fans do.

"Because what is he worth at 32? Not a huge amount. It'll definitely be sub-£10 million. I think it's purely about wanting the player in the squad."

Newcastle fans make their feelings clear on Murphy

It is very easy to see how those paying to watch at St James' Park feel about the news, with social media flooded with criticism and fingers being pointed at the owners.

There's absolute outrage over the news, and whether he scores a few goals between now and the end of the season or not, that anger isn't going anywhere.