Transfer Gossip: Bolton Wanderers set to sign former Leeds United midfielder

According to journalist Pete O’Rourke writing for the Football Insider, Bolton Wanderers are set to sign former Leeds United & Burton Albion midfielder, Luke Murphy.

The article from Football Insider states:

“Luke Murphy has agreed a deal to join Bolton on a free transfer hours after quitting Leeds United, Football Insider sources understands.

Murphy left Leeds on Wednesday night after cancelling his contract by mutual consent following five years at Elland Road after discussions with United top brass, led by director of football Victor Orta.

A well placed source has told Football Insider that Murphy has agreed a two-year deal at Bolton and is set to go straight into the squad for this weekend’s opening game of the season against West Bromwich Albion.”

After Marc Iles of The Bolton News speculated that Wanderers’ transfer plans had changed, speculation was rife as to who Bolton were signing.

Then, news broke that Murphy had left Leeds United by mutual consent. Many Wanderers fans guessed we’d be targeting him & that’s proven true.

So who is Luke Murphy?

Well, the 28 year old began his career with Crewe Alexandra in 2008. Playing alongside former Wanderer Max Clayton, the centre-midfielder made a name for himself, with his performances attracting the interest of several Championship and League One clubs.

Leeds United beat off the competition of Wolverhampton Wanderers and Blackburn Rovers to sign Murphy for a fee of £1 million in July 2013.

In three years, Muprhy scored seven times in 111 games at Leeds, before joining Burton Albion on loan for the 16/17 & 17/18 seasons.

The former Crewe captain and Player of the Year has played 356 career games, has loads of experience of Championship football & would be a good signing for Wanderers on a free transfer.

It’s clear to see that Bolton are lacking numbers in central midfield, so Murphy will be a welcome addition alongside Jason Lowe and Josh Vela.

Happy with the signing of Luke Murphy? Let us know in the comments box below.