Celtic-linked manager 'talking' to Newcastle United; Fresh claims surround Jacob Murphy's contract

That’s according to former Celtic and West Ham striker Frank McAvennie, who believes Steve Bruce has done well as head coach on Tyneside.

The former Bournemouth boss has been linked with succeeding Bruce, despite Magpies owner Mike Ashley publicly sticking by the 60-year-old.

Strong reports suggested Howe was preparing to take over at Parkhead, but his representatives dismissed claims he was close to returning to management.

And it is McAvennie’s understanding that the 43-year-old is “talking” to Newcastle, which he finds “disrespectful” to Celtic.

The former Scotland international told Football Insider: “Eddie Howe is going to be speaking to Newcastle.

“From what I hear, he’s holding back on Celtic and it looks like he’s talking to Newcastle, which is a shame because Steve Bruce has done a good job.

“Howe’s also waiting on Crystal Palace but Roy is still in the job down there, which means they have to wait until the end of the season to start talking.

“I think it’s disrespectful to Celtic, I think we have to move on and leave him.

“It’s the few months he wants to wait that lets me believe that he’s speaking to other people and Celtic can’t afford to wait.”

Jacob Murphy under contract until next season

Jacob Murphy’s contract at Newcastle United does not expire this summer, according to a report.

It has been widely reported that the former Norwich City star’s deal was set to run out at the end of the campaign but as per Football Insider, that is apparently not the case.

The 26-year-old is claimed to be under contract at St James’s Park until 2022, news which will be welcomed by the Newcastle fanbase following his run of impressive performances.

Murphy has featured 19 times in the Premier League this campaign, most notably thriving his role as right-wing back in recent weeks against Tottenham Hotspur and Burnley.

He scored the equaliser at Turf Moor on Sunday afternoon – his second goal of the term after converting a free-kick away at Wolverhampton Wanderers in October.

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