Real Madrid considering double Nottingham Forest transfer raid – Report | OneFootball

Madrid Interest Raises Big Questions for Forest Future

Real Madrid circling around two Nottingham Forest stars would have sounded like fanciful gossip in years gone by. Today, it feels like a measure of Forest’s growing relevance. TeamTalk report that Madrid chief scout Juan Calafat “believes that Murillo would be a valuable asset to improve Madrid’s defensive core”. That single line alone hints at how highly the Spanish giants rate Forest’s recruitment in recent windows.

This follows previous claims that Murillo is admired alongside Liverpool’s Ibrahima Konate, who is said to be Real’s top defensive target. With Forest reportedly valuing the 23 year old Brazilian at around €60m, the club suddenly finds itself confronted with the sort of decision that defines a project’s trajectory.

Murillo and Anderson Attract European Heavyweights

The inclusion of Elliot Anderson in this conversation elevates the situation further. Defensa Central suggest that Calafat is similarly impressed by Anderson and views him as a midfielder who can “help create play”. Forest paid £35m for him in the summer of 2024, yet sources have told TeamTalk that his valuation now sits at £75m.

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Two goals and seven assists in 53 games only begin to explain his importance. His energy, intelligence and creative influence have made him a central figure for the Tricky Trees. One source quoted by TeamTalk noted that “his profile has been raised significantly recently and Forest know they are in a strong situation”. That reflects a club aware of its position and determined not to buckle under pressure.

Power Shift and Transfer Dilemmas

Forest fans will recognise the turning point here. At least four major Premier League clubs, including Liverpool and Manchester United, are keeping tabs on Anderson. Dean Jones told TeamTalk, “It suits Forest for a bidding war to open up”. The club is no longer a soft target for cut price purchases. Instead, it holds assets that Europe is prepared to chase.

The big question is philosophical as much as financial. Forest want to consolidate rather than regress. Selling both Murillo and Anderson in the same window risks undermining the momentum built since promotion. However, turning down bids from Madrid has a weight of its own. For the players, a call from the Bernabeu tests ambition and loyalty.

Protecting the Project

Forest deserve credit for how they have elevated talent. Recruitment has been smarter, coaching has been capable and the club feels more stable. Saying no to Madrid is easier when it reflects a belief in the long term plan. The next few months will reveal how strong the club’s resolve is under pressure.

Our View, EPL Index Analysis

From a Forest perspective, the Madrid link triggers pride mixed with anxiety. Seeing Murillo and Anderson linked with Real feels like a badge of honour for the club’s progress. Fans remember not too long ago when survival was the only topic in spring. Now Europe’s most decorated club wants what Forest have built.

That said, admiration from afar does not pay for squad development. Forest supporters will ask whether selling one player to strengthen three positions is smarter than holding both as symbols of ambition. Murillo looks irreplaceable in terms of composure and technique at the back. Anderson feels like the heartbeat of the evolving midfield.

The fear is losing both in one swoop. That would feel like ripping out the core of a side that should be targeting a top ten finish. A staggered sale strategy would soften the blow. Many Forest fans would accept selling one if reinvestment was guaranteed and transparent.

There is also the player side of the debate. Turning down Madrid is tough. Forest need to convince their stars that staying another season can enhance careers, not limit them. Offering European football, even through a domestic cup run, could be key.

Whatever happens, Forest cannot allow themselves to be reactive. The club has earned the right to dictate terms. Fans will hope the board chooses growth over short term profit, because this squad finally feels capable of something special.