Murphy rules out free transfer

Jamie Murphy: Wants the club to receive a decent transfer fee should he leave as a reward for aiding his development

Jamie Murphy has ruled out winding his contract down at Motherwell as he feels they 'deserve' a decent fee should he leave.

The 23-year-old is out of contract at Fir Park next summer and could conceivably see out his contract and leave on a free transfer, earning a considerable amount in signing-on fees at his new club.

However, Murphy, who joined the club at Under 13 level, is conscious of the time, effort and money Motherwell have invested in his development and he does not want to be seen to be turning his back on a club that did so much for him.

He did come close to moving to Blackpool for £400,000 in January but turned down the deal as he felt it was rushed.

Murphy insists he will not force a move but if he does eventually leave, he wants it to be for a fee that will reward the club for their efforts.

"Only if a club makes a bid and I'm told to speak to them will I think about moving away," Murphy told the Daily Record.

"The only time it has happened so far Blackpool came in but it was the last day of the transfer window and it was a rush.

Great decision

"I also wanted to finish the season with Motherwell and clinch third as I knew we could secure the Champions League spot. All in all it was a great decision as we got there in the end.

"It's hard with the way football is these days. I understand completely the club might feel they have to cash in.

"I've been here for 10 years and know that has always been the case. It's not my preferred option to walk away for free next summer.

"That would be the last thing I want to happen because the club don't deserve it. I've been here for a long time and Motherwell have played a big part helping me become a footballer.

"They deserve a bit of money and it's up to me to play well and earn them that.

"When I first signed I wasn't a Motherwell fan but the club has really grown on me and some of my best mates are in the team.

"So if Motherwell can earn money from me that enables my best mates to stay or secure another year or two on their contracts that's great. That is what I want.

"Hopefully if a bid comes in it works out best for everyone, but the biggest thing for me is helping the players get longer contracts."