Journalist Fabrizio Romano has revealed that Chelsea are keen on signing Nottingham Forest defender Murillo.
The 21 year-old has been given a hefty £60 million price tag by Nottingham Forest which could be too steep for Chelsea – however Romano has confirmed they are still keen.
Speaking on the Debrief Podcast, Romano said: “For Murillo, there is interest from Chelsea. Chelsea asked about information on the deal…it was two weeks ago.”
The centre back would be brought in as a replacement for Thiago Silva who has left Stamford Bridge as a free agent this summer. Murillo is a natural physical defender making him a perfect replacement for Silva.
He joined Forest in 2023 from Brazillian side Corinthians for just over £10 million. His value has shot up after an impressive season at the City Ground where he made 32 appearances, helping Forest to survive relegation back to the Championship again.
Chelsea’s current centre back depth
Following the departure of Thiago Silva, the Blues currently have a number of young centre backs including Benjamin Badiashile, Levi Colwill, Wesley Fofana and Tosin Adarabioyo. However none of them possess the physicality that Murillo has.
That would make him an ideal fit alongside one of Chelsea’s faster defenders which could give Enzo Maresca a blend of pace and strength at the back.
Who are Chelsea competing with for Murillo’s signature?
Murillo previously attracted interest from Arsenal, however the Gunners’ last serious interest in him came in January and so it seems that Mikel Arteta is no longer viewing Murillo as a target.
Furthermore, Football Insider revealed that Liverpool were also keeping a close eye on the Forest defender, however their interest seems to have gone quiet as of late, making the Blues the front runners for the 21 year-old.
