NEWCASTLE are set to sign Irish youngster Alex Murphy. The defender currently plays with Galway United but is expected to switch to the Toon when he turns 18 in the summer.
RTE reports that Eddie Howe’s side has beaten Celtic, Brighton and Hove Albion, and Torino. Although, after scouting the player, it’s thought Celtic never made an official approach for him.
The Irishman has regularly represented his country’s youth teams and has even been involved with the under-21 squad despite just turning 17 at the time.
This won’t come as too much of a blow to Celtic. Those in attendance at Tuesday night’s B team derby would have seen Bosun Lawal and Euan Otoo in action. Both defenders looked comfortable in the game, and both showed glimpses of potential.
Celtic also have Dane Murray on their books. However, he’s currently on the sidelines injured.
Versatile, young Alex Murphy can play at left-back, an area where Celtic fans believe they need to improve. But the acquisition of the youngster wouldn’t improve that role immediately.
