Brighton shore up attack with record fee for Ireland forward Murphy

Brighton have moved to close a clear gap in their attacking options by signing Republic of Ireland forward Emily Murphy from Newcastle, paying an undisclosed club‑record fee for the 23‑year‑old. The deal addresses a stated need to add quality to an area the club identified for strengthening.

Murphy arrives with extensive Women’s Super League experience, having previously played for Birmingham City and Chelsea in the WSL, as documented by Getty Images. Her time in the United States also adds a broader perspective to her game.

At Newcastle she proved prolific in the second division, finishing as the club’s top‑scorer last season with six goals and four assists from 15 starts. Over her 18‑month spell she made 37 appearances across all competitions and entered the final year of her contract.

Newcastle confirmed that the transfer fee is undisclosed but represents a club record, reflecting Murphy’s value after a season of consistent goal contributions. The fee underscores the financial commitment Brighton are willing to make for a proven forward.

Brighton boss Dario Vidosic praised Murphy’s eye for goal and ability to provide for teammates, noting she already knows the standards expected in the WSL from her time with Chelsea. Vidosic added that her arrival brings the quality the team needed to strengthen its attack.

Internationally, Murphy has become a regular for the Republic of Ireland, starting five of their six Women’s World Cup qualifying matches this year. Her experience at the senior international level complements Brighton’s ambitions in the Women’s Super League.

The signing is Brighton’s seventh addition this summer as they aim to build on last season’s run to the Women’s FA Cup final. Newcastle have already secured a replacement by signing Scotland international Kathleen McGovern from Hibernian, where she scored 51 goals in 65 appearances.