Sheffield Wednesday locked in battle with Nottingham Forest and Derby County to sign Cardiff City winger - report

The 25-year-old – twin brother of Newcastle United star Jacob, who had a fruitful season-long loan with the Owls last year – has struggled for game-time under Neil Harris and has not started a Championship game for the Bluebirds since November 25.

Now The Football Insider is suggesting that Wednesday are locked in a three-way battle with Championship rivals Nottingham Forest and Derby County to secure the services of the former Norwich City man.

Murphy moved to South Wales from the Canaries for a club record £11m in 2018 ahead of the Bluebirds' Premier League campaign.

He has made just five starts in all competitions this season, but has scored 11 goals and chipped in with six assists in 78 games during his spell at the Cardiff City Stadium.

It is understood the Bluebirds are keen to move players out to free up the cash to get bodies in during this month's transfer window.

However, many at Cardiff believe Murphy still has the talent to impress at Championship level and believe a loan away until the end of the current campaign could suit all parties.

Despite having no manager since Tony Pulis was dismissed at Christmas, the Owls have already been active in the transfer market this month completing the signings of former Aston Villa winger Andre Green on a free transfer and young wide player Calum Huxley who impressed during a successful trial with the club’s under 23s.