Monday, 1st July, 2013
Leeds United have pulled off a major coup in their acquisition of Aston Villa-chased midfielder Luke Murphy on a three-year deal.
The 23-year-old had been subject to a "few enquiries" as revealed by Crewe Alexandra manager Steve Davis, at a time when the Villans were gunning for his signature.
Blackburn Rovers and Wolves were also in the hunt for a player who made 48 appearances last season, scoring nine goals and making 12 assists.
One of those goals came in the historic Johnstone’s Paint Trophy win against Southend United at Wembley as Murphy and Max Clayton helped Crewe to a 2-0 win.
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His arrival means Leeds United have got their summer transfers going once again, as manager Brian McDermott oversaw his second signing.
Matt Smith had already signed on from Oldham, and McDermott hailed a successful transfer for the Alsager-born player.
"He’s a player I’ve known for a long time", McDermott told his club’s official site. "I’ve watched his career progress, and I feel he was the best player in his division last year.
"Luke certainly fits the profile of player that we’re looking to attract: He is young, hungry, wants to work hard and very obviously talented."
The Whites manager has already indicated there will be more signings to follow, backed by his club chairman Salah Nooruddin, who added: "We’re delighted to complete the deal for Luke.
"There was plenty of interest in him from other clubs, but Brian had never made any secret about his desire to bring Luke here.
"We’re pleased we were able to get things done, and welcome a very good addition to our squad."
Murphy had also been a solid part of Crewe’s efforts last season, even as their playoff hopes failed to materialise following a slower-than-expected start.
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