Liverpool and Chelsea have joined the race to sign Nottingham Forest defender Murillo in 2027, according to Football Insider reporting. The 24-year-old Brazilian centre-back has attracted high-profile interest following standout performances at the City Ground, though securing a deal will prove difficult due to a contract running until 2030.
Liverpool Seek Defensive Continuity Amid Squad Changes
Liverpool are actively planning for future defensive stability as the club faces the potential departure of Virgil van Dijk and Joe Gomez at the end of the season. To address this upcoming experience gap, sporting director Julian Ward and Andoni Iraola have committed significant funds in recent transfer windows. Recent additions include Jeremy Jacquet in a £60m deal from Rennes, £26m teenager Giovanni Leoni, alongside Mor Talla Ndiaye and Ifeanyi Ndukwe. Adding a Premier League-proven left-footed option like Murillo remains an alternative as the club weighs options to replace Van Dijk on the left side of defence.
Nottingham Forest Reject January Transfer Approaches
Nottingham Forest will not entertain offers for Murillo in the January transfer window, as reported by Football Insider. Former Everton CEO Keith Wyness previously stated in May that Forest would demand “silly money” for the defender, reinforcing a club stance that their best players are not for sale following the record-breaking departure of Elliot Anderson to Manchester City. Murillo signed a contract extension in May securing his future at the City Ground until 2030, putting the club in a strong negotiating position that makes a mid-season departure unlikely.
Rival Interest From Chelsea and Manchester United
Chelsea and Manchester United are monitoring the defender alongside Liverpool. Chelsea are long-term admirers who could test Forest’s resolve if the player becomes available. Meanwhile, Manchester United have also placed Murillo among their targets for 2027 as Michael Carrick plans a defensive overhaul involving new centre-backs and a left-back. Despite high-profile tracking from multiple clubs, Forest’s strong financial footing and long-term contract terms complicate potential approaches for the South American centre-back.
Player Profile and Recovery From Injury
Murillo established himself as a crucial pillar for Oliver Glasner’s side, making 39 appearances across all competitions last season during the club’s Premier League survival campaign and run to the Europa League semi-finals. Operating primarily on the left of a defensive pairing alongside Nikola Milenković, the left-footer combines recovery pace and aggression in duels with progressive passing under pressure. His current campaign centers on regaining full match sharpness following a four-month absence caused by a hamstring issue.
Top Clubs Monitor Defender Tied to Long-Term Deal
What is the duration of Murillo’s current contract with Nottingham Forest?
Murillo is tied to Nottingham Forest under a long-term deal that runs until 2030, following a contract extension signed in May.
Which clubs are currently monitoring Murillo’s transfer situation?
Liverpool and Chelsea have joined the race to sign the defender in 2027, while Manchester United have also tracked his situation as a potential target for their defensive overhaul.
Why is a January transfer considered unlikely by reports?
Football Insider reported that Nottingham Forest do not need the money and will not entertain offers in the January transfer window due to his long-term contract and high valuation.
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