The 37-year-old Socceroos custodian has handed in a transfer request at Craven Cottage following interest from Arsenal, who have tabled two bids for the Aussie.

Schwarzer, who joined Fulham two seasons ago, has been a revelation since heading to London and Murphy admits he'd be hard to replace if he left.

"It's a difficult one because, for me, he's been one of the best two or three keepers in the Premier League for the past few seasons and he's a fantastic guy," Murphy told Sky Sports.

"He's a good leader on the pitch and a wonderful goalkeeper. I didn't realise how good he was until I played with him.

"It would be a huge loss to lose him, especially if we didn't replace him.

"We've got a great young goalkeeper in David Stockdale, who is a bit inexperienced, but is of real potential.

"I think, though, you'd need someone who's of similar experience to Mark. I don't think the club would let him go without replacing him, but he's going to be very difficult to replace if he does go because of the fact he's done so well for us.

"I hope he stays, but I understand that sometimes when the big clubs come calling, it's difficult to turn down."