Bolton Wanderers have completed the signing of Luke Murphy, the club have announced. 

Murphy’s contract with Leeds United was terminated by mutual consent 24 hours before the midfielder agreed a two-year deal with the Trotters.

The 28-year-old has spent the last 18-months at Burton Albion in two separate loan spells.

With new Leeds boss Marco Bielsa appointed during the summer, and the return of Murphy to the club came at a time when the club would make significant changes with the playing squad.

Having seen the arrival of a new coach and playing time potentially low, the midfielder agreed with the club to cancel his deal.

Murphy made 41 appearances for Burton in all competitions during their relegation season and managed to score one goal.

Bolton boss Phil Parkinson had been in the market for a midfielder after the releasing of Karl Henry, Derik Osede, Jem Karacan and Darren Pratley at the end of the season.

And the Lancashire side have moved quickly to snap up the former Crewe man to bolster their midfielder ahead of what looks to be a stormy season ahead.

A player with vast Championship experience, Murphy will be looking to feature in the Trotter’s season opener against West Bromwich Albion this weekend.

The Verdict

It was evident that Murphy was going to play no part in Leeds’ season this year with the new manager and a new philosophy being implemented.

An 18-month loan over two spells would make you aware that his Elland Road career was over.

It is a good signing for Bolton who are in dire need of a midfielder after letting four go at the end of last year.

Parkinson needed to add to his squad ahead of the new campaign as they looked quite light in some areas, and they still do.

Adding the 28-year-old is a positive step but more needs to be done before the transfer window closes.