How Jacob Murphy could unlock Everton's forwards after 2024-25 season data reveal
Everton should not rule out Newcastle man Jacob Murphy just because of his age.
The 31-year-old is understood to be a transfer target for the Blues, as they look to reinforce their attacking ranks.
David Moyes is hoping to add more goals to the side, as he chases a European berth next season.
Everton are eyeing a move for a new striker, but a winger could be on the agenda as well.
Murphy is one of a number of potential options that the Hill Dickinson Stadium side could choose.
Despite his advanced age, in terms of a football player, he should not be discounted due to his ability to unlock their struggling strikers.
Why Jacob Murphy would be a top quality signing for Everton
Murphy has already proved that age does not matter when it comes to quality.
When he was a youngster, he was tipped to do big things at Newcastle by ex-Everton boss Rafa Benitez, who was quoted on the Magpies' official website in 2017 as saying: "He's a young and talented player and hopefully he can develop even more here."
The Blues may well find that out as Sky Sports reported on Saturday that they are interested and he could leave Newcastle this summer.
There has been no offer yet, but it would make sense after his stunning 2024-25 campaign.
He notched nine goals and 14 assists in all competitions in 41 matches in that campaign, by far his best tally.
It proves that he can still thrive despite father time catching up to him, and can help out in attack.
A data reveal from that season suggests that could be the key that the Toffees need.
What stands out about Murphy's 2024-25 season data
Murphy could unlock the Toffees' forwards, if he can get back to his levels from the season before last.
Thierno Barry and Beto were extremely underwhelming last time out, and that was one of the reasons why the L3 outfit's push for Europe faltered at the end of the season.
Murphy formed a deadly connection with Alexander Isak, as 32.1 per cent of his passes to the Swede led to a shot, per official Premier League data.
That led to seven assists for the now Liverpool star, and he could do the same for the the struggling forwards that he may play alongside in the near future.
Blues fans may be reluctant when seeing links to the former Coventry City man, but it could work out very well, and make their team a lot more potent in the final third if they add him to the squad.