Emily Murphy set to join Brighton from Newcastle in record deal
Short overview
Republic of Ireland forward Emily Murphy is in advanced talks to join Brighton from Newcastle United. The 23-year-old was Newcastle's top scorer last season and the transfer fee would be a club record sale for the Magpies.
Republic of Ireland international Emily Murphy is on the verge of joining Women's Super League club Brighton & Hove Albion from Newcastle United, with the transfer expected to set a new club record sale fee for the Magpies.
The 23-year-old forward was Newcastle's top scorer in the second division last season, netting six goals and providing four assists in 15 starts. She has one year remaining on her contract with the club.
Advanced negotiations underway
It is understood that Murphy is in advanced discussions with Brighton, and sources indicate that Newcastle will receive a fee that would be a club record sale. The Republic of Ireland international has previous WSL experience from her time at Birmingham City and Chelsea, and has also played in the United States.
International rise
Since making her debut for the Republic of Ireland in 2024, Murphy has become a regular for her national team, starting five of their six Women's World Cup qualifying matches this year.
Brighton's summer rebuild
Brighton have already made five signings this summer as they look to build on last season's success, which saw them reach the Women's FA Cup final. The addition of Murphy would bolster their attacking options.
Newcastle secure replacement
Newcastle confirmed a replacement for Murphy on Tuesday with the signing of Scotland international Kathleen McGovern. The 24-year-old forward joins from Scottish side Hibernian, where she scored 51 goals in 65 appearances. McGovern is Newcastle's fourth signing of the summer.
More on these topics
Vidosic leaves Brighton days before WSL season starts
Brighton manager Dario Vidosic has left the club just a week before the new Women's Super League season to pursue a new opportunity. The Australian led Brighton to a fifth-place finish and an FA Cup final in his two seasons, with reports linking him to NWSL side Angel City.
Tottenham's Kirsty Hanson Signing Could Prove Summer's Smartest Deal
Kirsty Hanson's move from Aston Villa to Tottenham may have gone under the radar, but the Scotland forward was the WSL's third-highest scorer last season. With 12 goals in 22 matches, she could be the key to Spurs' top-three ambitions.
Gay World Cup Winner Faces Backlash After Saudi Move
Spain forward Esther Gonzalez has faced criticism after joining Saudi Women's Premier League club Al Qadsiah, following her departure from Gotham FC citing personal reasons. Fans and LGBTQ+ advocates have expressed concerns over her safety in a country where same-sex relationships are illegal.
Sydney Leroux: From U-20 Star to World Cup Champion
Sydney Leroux made history at the FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup Chile 2008, winning the Golden Ball and Golden Boot. She later helped the USA claim Olympic gold in 2012 and the Women's World Cup in 2015, cementing her legacy.
