Nottingham Forest Target Jacob Murphy: Why the Newcastle Winger Could Solve Their Attacking Need

GIVEMESPORT sources indicate that Forest are exploring a move for the 31-year-old, who has made two Premier League appearances for Newcastle this season but has been used as a substitute on both occasions.

With Murphy entering the final year of his contract at St James' Park, Newcastle could view this summer as one of their last opportunities to receive a transfer fee for the winger.

Forest lost Dilane Bakwa to Lille on loan earlier in the window and are now considering whether Murphy could fill the void on the right side of their attack.

Why Newcastle Could Sell Murphy Now

Murphy's situation at Newcastle has become increasingly uncertain.

The winger has dropped down the pecking order and is yet to make a Premier League start this season. His position has also been affected by Anthony Elanga's strong start on the right flank.

That could make regular first-team opportunities harder to find for Murphy as the season progresses.

His contract situation adds another layer to the decision. With just one year remaining on his current deal, Newcastle risk losing the player for nothing if they keep him beyond this summer without reaching an extension.

For both club and player, a late transfer could therefore make sense.

Murphy's Recent Numbers Tell an Interesting Story

Murphy's production dipped last season, but his previous campaign showed that he can contribute consistently in the final third.

Murphy registered 23 goals and assists across 41 appearances in 2024/25, demonstrating the attacking output he can provide when given a consistent role.

His 2025/26 campaign was less productive, finishing with four goals and five assists in 46 appearances, but Forest could believe a change of environment would allow the experienced winger to rediscover his best form.

Why Nottingham Forest Need Another Attacker

Forest's start to the campaign has been mixed.

They suffered defeat against Leeds in their opening Premier League fixture before Leeds eliminated them from the Carabao Cup just days later.

Their response at Anfield was considerably more encouraging, however, as Forest earned a point against Liverpool.

The early results have highlighted the need for greater depth as Oliver Glasner builds his squad.

The departure of Bakwa has also left Forest with another attacking vacancy to address, making a winger one of the positions they could prioritise before the transfer deadline.

Where Would Jacob Murphy Fit in Glasner's System?

The biggest tactical question is where Murphy would operate.

Glasner generally sets his side up in a 3-4-2-1, meaning the attacking players behind the striker often occupy narrower positions rather than staying permanently on the touchline.

That could actually suit Murphy's skill set.

Murphy has the attacking ability to contribute in those advanced areas but also possesses the work rate required to contribute defensively.

His willingness to track back could make him useful in a system where the attacking players are expected to contribute during defensive transitions.

Rather than simply replacing Bakwa as a traditional winger, Murphy could therefore offer Glasner a more versatile option between the flank and central attacking areas.

Forest Could Have a Busy Final Two Days

Forest's pursuit of Murphy comes at a crucial point in the transfer window.

The club have already shown signs of needing more attacking depth, while Murphy's declining role at Newcastle and expiring contract could make the 31-year-old an attainable target.

For Newcastle, the decision is whether to retain an experienced squad player for the final year of his contract or cash in while there is still an opportunity to do so.

For Forest, the attraction is clear: Murphy brings Premier League experience, versatility and a proven record of contributing goals and assists.

If the deal progresses, Glasner could soon have another experienced attacking option to work with as Forest look to build momentum after their encouraging draw at Anfield.