Ireland Under-21 defender closing in on loan move from Newcastle to Bolton Wanderers

Ireland Under-21 defender Alex Murphy looks set to complete a loan move to Bolton Wanderers in the coming days. The former Galway United prospect has been on the lookout for an opportunity to add to his first-team experience - and a short-term move to League One could see him thrown straight into the action Bolton face Charlton Athletic on Tuesday night and the Trotters are racing to complete the deal ahead of kick-off. Murphy is a versatile defender who is equally at home at centre-half and left-back.

The 20-year-old already has some Premier League experience to his name, having made his Newcastle first-team debut as a substitute against Chelsea in November 2023 and featuring again off the bench against Sheffield United last April. Murphy also made over 30 appearances for Galway United before his move to Newcastle, with his debut coming as a 16-year-old against Athlone Town during the 2020 campaign. Toon boss Eddie Howe is a big fan of the youngster and is eager to see Murphy add to his senior minutes.



However, there is no room at the moment for the Irishman, with Howe turning to experienced defenders to bolster Newcastle’s push for a Champions League spot. Murphy has previously spoken of his desire to break into the first-team at St James’ Park. “I want to get as many games under my belt as possible and then, hopefully, the aim is to play here (Newcastle) every week,” he said.

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