Newcastle beat Brighton, West Brom to Alex Murphy signing as deal announced for teenage prospect

Newcastle United have beaten Brighton and West Brom to the signing of Republic of Ireland starlet Alex Murphy, with a deal announced by the Magpies.

According to The Chronicle, Brighton and West Brom have been pursuing the defender amid his impressive performances with Galway United. But it is Newcastle who have won the race for Murphy’s services.

A club statement read: ‘Newcastle United can confirm a deal is in place for Irish defender Alex Murphy to join the club’s Academy from Galway United.’

Murphy is just 17 years old and represents Republic of Ireland U19s on the international stage. He has made 15 appearances for Galway United this season, chipping in with two goals and three assists.

Newcastle clearly admire Murphy’s versatility. He usually operates as a left-back but has also played as a centre-half, or on the right side of defence, this term.

The teenager will link up with Newcastle U23s in July, when the deal officially goes through. He will aim to impress U23s boss Elliott Dickman before potentially getting a first-team opportunity in the next few years.

Of course, it will be tough for him to get into Eddie Howe’s plans during 2022-23. That’s because the manager can already rely on Dan Burn, Fabian Schar, Jamaal Lascelles and Ciaran Clark in central defence.

Plus, the Magpies are still in the mix to land Sven Botman from Lille. Competition for the Dutchman’s signature also comes from AC Milan.

On the Murphy deal, Newcastle academy boss Steve Harper said: “We are very pleased to have secured a deal to bring Alex to Newcastle United.

“He is a very promising young player who has attracted a lot of attention from clubs. It is a real coup for our Academy and is testament to the direction the club is going in under