Queens Park Rangers goalkeeper Murphy Cooper looks set to be at the centre of a League One tug-of-war to secure his services for next season, according to West London Sport.
Cooper is believed to be attracting interest from Stevenage and Bolton Wanderers.
Standout Performer On Loan
The goalkeeper, who was previously known as Murphy Mahoney, spent the 2024-25 season on loan with Stevenage, where he was one of the club’s top performers.
After managing to dislodge Taye Ashby-Hammond, the 23-year-old made 37 league appearances and kept 16 clean sheets as Alex Revell’s side finished the campaign in 14th place.
Cooper’s displays saw him win the club’s Young Player of the Season award, and his manager praised the young keeper for his ‘exceptional performances’.
Bolton Look To Rebuild Goalkeeping Department
Following a disappointing season that saw Wanderers finish eighth and ten points off the playoffs, Steven Schumacher is keen to put together a squad capable of sustaining a promotion challenge.
Bolton conceded 70 goals last term, leading the manager to turn his attention to the goalkeeping department. The former Plymouth Argyle boss has already released Nathan Baxter, and it is expected that Joel Coleman will depart the club at the end of his contract.
That would leave Schumacher with just Luke Southwood as a recognised first-team stopper, leading to speculation that Wanderers will attempt to outdo Stevenage and bring Cooper to the Toughsheet Community Stadium.
A Loan Looking Likely
At present, it is unclear whether Stevenage Bolton are looking for a permanent transfer for the 23-year-old or whether they’ll be happy with a loan.
Queens Park Rangers are, however, according to the report, unlikely to let their academy graduate leave permanently, as they are hopeful either he or Joe Walsh can become their established number one in the not-too-distant future.
Writer’s View
Following his successful loan at the Lamex Stadium, it is no surprise that Cooper is wanted by Alex Revell and Stevenage for a second campaign.
With Bolton seen as the more likely to mount a promotion challenge, perhaps QPR and the goalkeeper will be keen on a move to Lancashire next season before a return to Loftus Road to challenge for the number one shirt.
