OXFORD United have pulled off a transfer coup with the signing of Josh Murphy.
The winger has agreed a two-year deal with the U’s following his release by Cardiff City at the end of last season, having cost the Welsh club £11million in 2018.
Murphy completed his medical yesterday after coming on as a half-time substitute at AFC Wimbledon on Saturday.
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The 27-year-old has never played below the Sky Bet Championship but drops down to Sky Bet League One to link-up with head coach Karl Robinson, who he worked with at MK Dons in 2015/16.
Murphy said: “I had options from other clubs, but when I had the chance to come in and train with the manager I saw it as a no-brainer.
“We get on really well, he’s a terrific man-manager so it was something I wanted to get done.
“Just from being in the building I’ve got a really good vibe from the place.
“It was something we could agree on quite quickly and right now I feel this is the best place for me to be.”
Murphy is United’s fifth summer signing and the second winger in quick succession to arrive, following Yanic Wildschut’s move on Friday.
The wide man came through the academy system at Norwich City with twin brother Jacob Murphy, now at Newcastle United.
He scored 20 goals in 108 senior appearances for the Canaries, featuring in the Premier League, but was only involved regularly after his successful loan spell at MK.
Murphy found the net seven times in 46 matches to earn the 2015/16 players’ player of the year award, although he could not prevent relegation from the Championship.
The former England Under 20 international joined Cardiff four years ago and made 29 appearances in the top flight, ending his time in south Wales with 14 goals in 99 games.
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He was loaned to Championship side Preston North End last season but endured an unhappy spell at Deepdale, playing only 12 times and not making a single start.
Following his release by Cardiff, Murphy was on trial at Reading earlier this month and started training with United last week.
“I’ve been working on my fitness and hopefully it won’t be long until I’m fully match-fit,” he said.
“It’s definitely an important time, I haven’t had a lot of football over the last couple of seasons.
“Now it’s a chance for me to stamp my authority and kick on.
“I’m excited, I’ve got that fire in my belly to do well for the club and myself so I’m hoping for a great season.”
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