Newcastle United boss Rafael Benitez has reportedly signalled his intention to push through the signing of Norwich City winger Jacob Murphy.
Benitez is thought to have become frustrated with the club's lack of transfer business this summer, with Christian Atsu and Florian Lejeune the only new arrivals at St James' Park.
However, the Magpies continue to be linked with further incomings and according to The Mirror, Benitez wants to sign England Under-21 international Murphy in a deal worth in the region of £8.5m.
The wideman was inactive during the closing weeks of the last campaign, but he featured for the Three Lions on four occasions as they reached the semi-finals of Under-21 Euro 2017.
Southampton and Crystal Palace are also said to be in the running for his signature, but it appears that Newcastle are currently regarded as the frontrunners to complete a deal ahead of the new campaign.
Murphy still has four years remaining on his existing deal at Carrow Road.
Darren Plant
