Chelsea are reportedly showing significant interest in Nottingham Forest’s young centre-back Murillo and have already approached the club about a potential transfer, according to UOL.
Forest have set a price tag of £51 million ($64 million) for the 21-year-old defender, but Chelsea are hesitant to meet that valuation. Instead, the West London club is prepared to offer two players as part of a deal to lower the overall cost.
However, Chelsea face competition for Murillo’s signature. Atletico Madrid had previously shown interest, making an approach in March. Murillo, who joined Forest from Brazilian club Corinthians in August 2023, signed a five-year contract with the English side.
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During his debut season, he made 36 appearances across all competitions, playing a crucial role in helping Forest avoid relegation to the Championship. As part of the transfer agreement with Corinthians, the Brazilian club is entitled to 10 percent of the fee Forest receives for Murillo.
Chelsea’s interest in Murillo aligns with their strategy of targeting young talents rather than established stars, a shift observed since Todd Boehly became co-owner in 2022.
This approach contrasts with their previous acquisitions of seasoned players like Raheem Sterling and Christopher Nkunku.
The club has been known for its substantial spending on new signings under Boehly’s ownership, and they may need to continue this trend if they are to secure Murillo in the upcoming summer transfer window.