Steve Bruce has ruled out a loan exit from Newcastle for winger Jacob Murphy amid interest from Rangers.
The former Norwich youngster is a target for Steven Gerrard and Ross Wilson ahead of the end of the window but it’s unlikely that he’ll make a move north now.
Murphy cost the Magpies £12m when he joined from Norwich in 2017 but he has struggled to make an impact, with just two goals in 42 games.
The second of those goals came in the 7-0 win over Morecambe in the Carabao Cup on Wednesday night and Bruce is now determined to keep him.
The 25-year-old has spent time out on loan at West Brom and Sheffield Wednesday in the Championship over the past couple of seasons.
But he won't be doing it again if the Newcastle United boss has his way, and he plans on giving him an opportunity in the first team this season.
He said: "I won't be letting him out on loan. He deserves to stay with us and he's improved enormously.
"He's had a really good pre-season and has shown a great attitude. He's benefited from being out on loan last season and has really given us food for thought."
Murphy is on Rangers' wanted list but a winger is down their list of priorities presently with a midfielder more important.
The Ibrox side have Ryan Kent, Ianis Hagi, Brandon Barker, Greg Stewart and Jordan Jones for those positions while Kemar Roofe, Scott Arfield and Joe Aribo can all also play there.
