A clutch of Championship clubs are exploring the option of signing Cardiff City winger Josh Murphy on loan this month, according to reports.
Bluebirds boss Neil Harris has made it clear he needs to get bodies out the door in order to free up funds for further recruitment this month.
City have already signed striker Max Watters from League Two outfit Crawley Town, in a deal which could rise to as much as £1m, while the announcement of Crewe Alexandra right back Perry Ng is seemingly imminent.
Cardiff have already seen Gavin Whyte leave on loan to League One side Hull City during this window, but if Harris wants others in then he must make room both in his squad and on the wage bill.
According to Football Insider, Derby County, Nottingham Forest and Sheffield Wednesday are all keen to sign Murphy on loan.
The 25-year-old winger is Cardiff City's record signing, having joined in an £11m deal from Norwich City ahead of the Bluebirds' Premier League campaign.
He has shown glimpses of real quality during his time in a City shirt, however they have been far too fleeting and the winger is now way down the pecking order at Cardiff City Stadium.
It is understood that Harris, having already brought in a striker and hopefully a right back In Ng, has identified a pacey winger and a centre back as his two other priorities this month.
Given Murphy has played the equivalent of just over three Championship games this season - 302 minutes across 13 appearances - the idea of keeping him in the Welsh capital this month seems unviable.
The 25-year-old has not started a league game for City since November and has produced just one assist from his 15 outings this term.
However, many still believe he has the talent to make his mark at this level and the prospect of a loan could be ideal for all parties.
It would mean game time for Murphy, a wage off the bill for Cardiff and the Welsh club would also be able to track his progress for the remainder of the season.
And, importantly, it will free up some cash to further bolster the club's options out wide.
