Jacob Murphy was caught on Premier Sports TV cameras in deep conversation with Everton manager David Moyes after Newcastle United's 3-1 defeat at Murrayfield Stadium on Wednesday, sparking fresh speculation about a summer move to Merseyside.
The Magpies winger has entered the final year of his contract at St James' Park, and Everton were among the clubs interested in the 31-year-old earlier in the window.
Murphy's Newcastle career
Murphy has spent nine years at Newcastle since joining from Norwich City in 2017. After a slow start and loan moves away from Tyneside, he became a key member of the side under Eddie Howe.
Speculation has been rife this summer that his association with his boyhood club could come to an end, with Newcastle expected to consider offers for a player over 30 in the last 12 months of his deal.
Everton's options
However, a move to Everton now appears doubtful. The arrival of Crystal Palace winger Brennan Johnson gives the Toffees two options on the right wing, with 20-year-old Tyler Dibling impressing in pre-season.
On the left, Tyrique George and Iliman Ndiaye are strong options, and the Liverpool Echo reports that Ndiaye's camp have not reciprocated Al-Hilal's interest. Everton are also expected to pursue another loan deal for Manchester City's Jack Grealish.
Murphy's pre-season
Unless one of those players unexpectedly leaves before September 1, it seems unlikely the Toffees will move for Murphy despite his public conversation with Moyes.
As things stand, Murphy is preparing to start the season with Newcastle and has featured in every pre-season match, wearing the captain's armband on numerous occasions. Whether he remains a Magpies player by the end of the window remains to be seen, but one path out of the club now appears closed.
