Home » Sport » Newcastle leading Southampton and Crystal Palace in £8m race for Norwich star Jacob Murphy

NEWCASTLE are reportedly closing in on a deal for Norwich City’s Jacob Murphy.

The Magpies are attempting to finalise an £8million move for the attacker this week.

Mirror Sport claim that Rafa Benitez is set to snap-up the 22-year-old as his summer spending kicks into gear.

England Under-21 international Murphy is also being chased by several other Premier League clubs.

Southampton and Crystal Palace are also interested in the forward.

However, it is Newcastle who are leading the race for his signature.

After a loan spell at Coventry two seasons ago, he returned to Carrow Road 12 months ago and enjoyed a fine campaign.

That form saw him work his way into the international set-up.

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Jacob Murphy was born on February 24 1995 in Wembley, England
He is the twin brother of fellow footballer Josh
Murphy joined Norwich in 2006 and made his debut against Fulham in January 2014
He has had six loan spells in total, playing for Swindon, Southend, Blackpool, Scunthorpe, Colchester and Coventry
His performances have been recognised on the international stage with him winning caps at U18, U19, U20 and U21 level
Murphy has played 37 times for Norwich inthe league and bagged nine goals

He was called-up by Aidy Boothroyd for the European Championship last month.

And his performances have persuaded the top-flight trio to press ahead in their pursuit of the ace.

All three a keen on the Wembley-born speedster.

They are also willing to meet his £8m price-tag.

But it appears the pull of working with former Real Madrid boss Benitez on Tyneside has swayed his decision to switch to Tyneside.