Liverpool face competition for £50m Premier League defender | OneFootball

Transfer groundwork signals early Liverpool and Chelsea intent

Liverpool and Chelsea have both stepped up their long-term pursuit of Nottingham Forest centre-back Murillo, with industry sources indicating the two Premier League sides have “done more groundwork than anyone else” over the past year. As first reported by TEAMtalk, conversations around a potential summer move are already advanced in principle, even though no formal bid has yet been lodged.

Murillo, 23, is widely expected to seek a step up from the City Ground at the end of the season. His representatives have begun exploring options, with Liverpool and Chelsea considered the most proactive suitors. Both clubs assessed a move last summer, and neither has cooled its interest since.

For Liverpool, the context is clear. Uncertainty around the long-term futures of defenders such as Ibrahima Konaté and Joe Gomez has prompted planning within Arne Slot’s recruitment structure. As seen in the Dutchman’s 2-3-5 build-up shape this season, centre-backs capable of progressive passing and aggressive duelling are central to Liverpool’s tactical identity. Murillo’s profile fits that model neatly.

Chelsea squad planning fuels defensive reshuffle

Chelsea’s interest is equally strategic. Enzo Maresca’s defensive rebuild continues, and while the club have welcomed returning players from injury, they are open to listening to offers for Tosin Adarabioyo, Benoît Badiashile and Trevoh Chalobah, according to the same TEAMtalk report.

A potential triple departure would accelerate their move for another centre-back, and Murillo’s Premier League adaptation makes him an appealing option. His ability to defend large spaces and carry the ball into midfield aligns with Chelsea’s preference for defenders comfortable in possession.

Forest remain aware of his ambitions. The Brazilian signed a new four-year deal in January last year, and club insiders insist there is no release clause. Nevertheless, the expectation is that he will push for a move if a Champions League-level side meets Forest’s valuation.

Nottingham Forest stance sets £50m benchmark

Forest will demand full value. Sources close to the situation believe a fee north of £50m will be required to prise Murillo away, with the club keen to reinforce their negotiating position after strong interest in other players such as Morgan Gibbs-White and Elliot Anderson.

Murillo’s development has been rapid. A one-cap Brazil international, he has combined physicality with composure, ranking among Forest’s leaders in progressive carries and interceptions this season. That blend has drawn attention not only from Liverpool and Chelsea but also from Arsenal, Manchester United and Tottenham.

Forest’s hierarchy are pragmatic. They understand that players of Murillo’s age and trajectory often attract top-six bids. However, they are prepared to hold firm until their valuation is met, confident that multiple bidders will emerge.

Murillo profile suits Slot system and Maresca rebuild

From Liverpool’s perspective, recruitment under Slot has emphasised defenders who can initiate attacks quickly. Murillo’s passing range and willingness to step into midfield echo traits seen in Virgil van Dijk’s peak years, albeit with a more aggressive carrying style.

Chelsea view him differently. Maresca’s system prioritises structured build-up from deep, and Murillo’s comfort on the ball and recovery pace would complement Levi Colwill’s distribution and Wesley Fofana’s mobility.

What remains clear is that Murillo’s camp expect movement this summer. TEAMtalk reported that his interest from Liverpool and Chelsea is “strong and serious”, and sources believe a bidding battle is likely once the window opens.

For Liverpool supporters tracking transfer patterns as closely as match-day xG charts, this pursuit reflects a familiar theme. Planning begins early, targets are monitored extensively, and deals accelerate only when squad dynamics demand. Chelsea, meanwhile, continue their aggressive market strategy, reshaping their defensive line to suit Maresca’s philosophy.

Murillo may not yet have chosen his destination, but with Liverpool and Chelsea circling, Nottingham Forest are preparing for negotiations that could define their summer.