Man United eye move for Nottingham Forest’s Murillo | OneFootball

Manchester United are looking for a new centre-back to cover for Lisandro Martinez and have shortlisted Murillo as a possible summer target, according to the i Paper.

Harry Maguire could leave Old Trafford for free this summer, and the injury to Matthijs de Ligt has not helped, leaving Man United with no choice but to be proactive.

Murillo could be a viable target, especially if Nottingham Forest go down. The 23-year-old reportedly has ‘the perfect blend of youth and Premier League experience without ego’.

The Brazilian is renowned for launching attacks with his buccaneering runs and reliable passing. He has won 56 percent of his ground and 54% of his aerial duels this season.

Man United could use a consistent presence in the rearguard, as Martinez has been increasingly injury-prone. Liverpool, Chelsea and Real Madrid are also monitoring the Forest man.

He is not agitating for a move as he has a deal that runs through until 2029, but he could leave this summer.

Murillo may not be the right fit for United

United should weigh the stylistic trade-offs before making a move.

Murillo’s strengths lie in his aggression on the ball and his willingness to step into midfield, but he is not the most physically imposing centre-back.

Shorter and stockier than many elite defenders, he does not always dominate in the air, particularly against bigger Premier League forwards. That could be a concern for United.

If United are looking for a defender who brings authority to the rearguard, they may be better served targeting a more commanding centre-half who can consistently control the air and the ground.