Sunderland One of a Host of Championship Sides Pursuing Newcastle's Daryl Murphy
Newcastle's fierce rivals Sunderland are reportedly interested in re-signing the Magpies Daryl Murphy as they look for attacking reinforcements following the departure of Jermain Defoe to Bournemouth.
Following a record of 43 goals in Murphy's last three seasons, a host of Championship club's are understood to be in pursuit of the 34-year-old who has a proven track record in England's second division.
IPSWICH, ENGLAND - APRIL 17: Daryl Murphy of Newcastle United controls the ball ahead of Jordan Spence of Ipswich Town during the Sky Bet Championship match between Ipswich Town and Newcastle United at Portman Road on April 17, 2017 in Ipswich, England. (Photo by Stephen Pond/Getty Images)
Stephen Pond/GettyImages
The Shields Gazettehas reported that the Black Cats - who are currently without a senior striker in their squad - are aware of Murphy's availability and would be interested in re-uniting with the striker on Wearside.
However, with the Magpies parting with £3m for Murphy only last summer the stumbling block for Sunderland could be their transfer demands as they have limited funds this summer, therefore Black Cats are said to be favouring a short-term deal for the forward.
Despite scoring six goals last season to help Newcastle secure promotion to the Premier League, the club are set to sell him ahead of the new campaign.
Murphy himself said last month of his future: "Rafa is a top, top manager. He texted me after the Uruguay game to say well done.
“I spoke to him last week about my future and he thanked me for what I had done and said they were going to listen to a few offers. I said ‘that’s fine’.
“I always knew I had been brought in there to do a specific job, to help the club get promoted. I had no illusions that I was going to be starting for Newcastle in the Premier League if we got up."
The striker is said to be in high demand, with Aston Villa, Birmingham City and Nottingham Forest also reportedly interested in securing him next season.
