Benitez hails ‘young and talented’ Murphy as winger joins Toon

Michael Graham
jacob murphy norwich 2

jacob murphy norwich 2

Newcastle have completed the signing of winger Jacob Murphy from Norwich, with boss Rafa Benitez telling of his excitement to get him.

The Magpies had an increased offer for Murphy accepted on Tuesday, reported to be £12.5million, and the England Under-21 international has now become their third summer signing.

“He’s a young and talented player and hopefully he can develop even more here,” Newcastle boss Benitez told the club’s official website.

“We hope he can show us the passion, commitment and ability that he showed in the Championship last season.”

Murphy, whose parents are from the north east, said: “It was a childhood dream of mine to represent Newcastle and the opportunity is now here. I can’t wait to get started.”

The Magpies, who had two earlier offers for Murphy turned down, had previously signed only Chelsea winger Christian Atsu and Eibar defender Florian Lejeune since winning promotion back to the Premier League last season.

Fans were becoming increasingly impatient at the club’s lack of transfer activity and still expect more new arrivals, with Benitez linked to a loan move for another wide player, Liverpool’s Sheyi Ojo.

Murphy, who progressed through Norwich’s academy, was one of the club’s few shining lights in the Sky Bet Championship last season.

He played a key role for Aidy Boothroyd’s England Under-21 squad which reached the semi-finals of the European Championships last month when they lost to Germany on penalties.

Murphy made the first-team breakthrough at Carrow Road during the 2013/14 season and has made over 40 appearances.