Nottingham Forest’s breakout centre-back Murillo is shaping up to be one of the most in-demand defenders in the upcoming summer transfer window. Sources close to the player confirm that Arsenal and Liverpool remain highly interested after initially exploring a move for the 22-year-old Brazilian in January. Talks failed to progress then, but the intent from both clubs has not faded.
Murillo’s performances in the heart of Forest’s defence have caught widespread attention. Now valued at around €80 million, the young centre-back is also being tracked by Chelsea and Real Madrid, making this a potential four-way battle among some of Europe’s elite.
Despite the growing interest, Nottingham Forest remain reluctant to sell, according to Caught Offside. They are reportedly preparing to offer Murillo a lucrative contract extension through to 2030, in hopes of building their project around him — especially if they secure an unlikely Champions League qualification. Currently sitting fourth in the Premier League, Forest’s impressive campaign under Nuno Espirito Santo has made them confident they can retain their key players.
Though Arsenal boast a strong back line with William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhães, they are planning for the future. With interest reportedly growing in Gabriel Magalhaes and Jakub Kiwior, Mikel Arteta sees Murillo as a reliable long-term option. His composure in possession and ability to play out from the back align with Arsenal’s system. His potential partnership with Saliba could create one of the most technically gifted centre-back duos in the league.
With Arne Slot set to rebuild his squad, a makeover in defence could be on the cards. Virgil van Dijk, now in his thirties, won’t be around forever, and Ibrahima Konate’s contract is approaching its final stretch. Murillo fits the profile of a future defensive leader at Anfield. His athleticism, anticipation, and ball-playing qualities would allow Liverpool to maintain their high defensive line while preparing for a generational transition.
Chelsea have focused heavily on signing young, high-ceiling players. Murillo fits the profile perfectly. With Thiago Silva no more at the club and uncertainty over the long-term futures of players like Benoît Badiashile and Trevoh Chalobah, Chelsea view Murillo as a potential long-term solution. His ability to handle pressure and perform consistently in a defensive system would be well-suited to Enzo Maresca’s likely tactical demands.
As for Real Madrid, with Eder Militão recovering from injury and David Alaba approaching the latter stages of his career, Los Blancos are actively searching for future-proof defensive talent. Murillo’s profile, aggressive yet composed, tactically aware and physically strong, is exactly what Madrid value in centre-backs. Playing alongside Antonio Rudiger or eventually replacing him could be the next step in his development. Can he be Xabi Alonso’s lynchpin at Real Madrid? Time will tell.
Murillo is one of the most exciting young defenders in Europe right now, and it is no surprise to see Europe’s elite circling. His maturity at just 22, combined with a standout season in arguably the most physical league in the world, makes his €80 million valuation understandable. For Nottingham Forest, keeping him would be a major statement. But if he leaves, they’ll be looking at a massive return on investment. Wherever he lands, expect Murillo to be a cornerstone signing for the next era.
