Liverpool are reportedly interested in signing Nottingham Forest defender Murillo and reports say the Brazilian ‘would consider’ making the move to Anfield.
The January transfer window has predictably seen zero incoming signings for Liverpool as Arne Slot is content with his options. Given the Reds have a mostly fit squad, there is little need to change what has been so effective in the Dutch manager’s debut season at Anfield.
The summer transfer window ahead, however, will be far more complicated. A lot depends on whether or not sporting director Richard Hughes can complete contract renewals for Virgil van Dijk, Mohamed Salah and Trent Alexander-Arnold.
As you would expect, the club is planning for every eventuality and unfortunately that entails planning for a potential future without the influential Liverpool trio.
And that’s where Murillo comes in. If van Dijk leaves, Liverpool are seriously considering signing the Forest defender as he continues to impress in the Premier League after his 2023 move to England.
Report says Liverpool have “serious interest” in Murrilo
A report from Caught Offside today claims that Liverpool are seriously interested in signing Murillo but mention that Forest will not “be willing to negotiate for anything less than £80m.”
The Brazilian only recently signed a contract extension with the in-form Premier League outfit that extends his stay until 2029.
Reportedly, Murillo “would consider” a move to Anfield but with Arsenal, Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain all expressing interest, the 22-year-old will have several top clubs to pick from by the time the summer window arrives.
Forest don’t want to lose Murillo – his new contract is proof – but if the player has his head turned, they will take the opportunity to generate a massive transfer fee.
Forest would be understandably gutted to lose the centre-back given how vital his performances have been to their surprise push for Champions League football.
They’re currently third and six points above fifth-placed Newcastle United.
According to data from Fbref, Murillo ranks in the 95th percentile for blocks and clearances, underlining his efficacy in defensive situations. Funnily, he also ranks in the 99th percentile for successful take-ons by a centre back with just under one per game.
Much like Joel Matip did, Murillo loves to go an adventure with the ball but is quite good at breaking the lines with his bursts from the back.
Liverpool would do well to win the race for his signature but as good as the former Corinthians man is, signing him but losing Virgil van Dijk would not feel like a win.