By Mark Vester

According to a report in the Manchester Evening News, unbeaten lightweight John Murray (30-0, 18KOs) is ready to face Amir Khan (24-1, 17KOs) for the WBA junior welterweight title on April 16 at the MEN Arena in Manchester. Roberto Diaz, matchmaker for Golden Boy Promotions, told the paper that Murray is ready and willing to fight. Golden Boy's CEO Richard Schaefer has told Khan's management and waits for an answer on the fight.

“Richard Schaefer has spoken to Khan’s people and told them that John Murray is interested and ready and willing to fight. He’s waiting to hear from them. There are a couple of possibilities being considered, but Murray has been added to that list," Diaz said.

“It would be a big fight in Manchester and there would be interest in the States as well. Murray is undefeated – 30-0 – and although he hasn’t had the exposure out here, he is highly ranked.”

Khan’s manager Asif Vali confirmed to the paper that Murray is being considered. He said they have to make sure the money Murray wants is not excessive and that Sky Sports and HBO approve the fight. Sky will be no problem and I can't see HBO having a big issue.

“There have been a number of opponents offered and we are looking at them,” he said. “We have to make sure that whoever is offered to us is at the right price. Amir is at a world level now whereas John Murray is nowhere near that level. There is also the issue that any fight has to be approved by broadcasters.”