Report: Chelsea set to battle Arsenal in the race to sign Nottingham Forest star | OneFootball

Chelsea And Arsenal Push Forward In Murillo Pursuit

Interest in the Nottingham Forest centre-back has intensified, with senior figures across Europe tracking his progress and preparing potential moves, according to Caught Offside.

Chelsea’s Tactical Rationale

Chelsea have monitored Murillo since the summer. Their recruitment approach has increasingly leaned toward defenders who can influence possession phases, and the 23-year-old fits that brief cleanly. As noted, “Chelsea are impressed with Murillo’s playing style” and the club believe his comfort under pressure aligns with their developing system under Enzo Maresca. One well-placed source said, “He would be trusted to start moves, not just break them up,” reinforcing the direction Chelsea are taking with their defensive rebuild.

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His nine Premier League appearances this season have highlighted his composure even within a fluctuating Forest side. His ball retention and timing in duels have drawn consistent praise from analysts, with some in the industry describing him as “a defender who plays like someone ten years older.”

Arsenal’s Renewed Intent

Arsenal have entered the race with conviction. Mikel Arteta values defenders capable of progressing the ball through tight spaces and Murillo offers that blend of control and athleticism. “Mikel Arteta is believed to be a long-time admirer of Murillo’s progressive style,” and sources suggest Arsenal regard him as someone who could contribute immediately. His profile complements their existing pairing and supports long-term planning around squad depth.

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Arsenal have been increasingly assertive in defensive recruitment, and this chase aligns with that strategy. Figures close to the discussions have told Caught Offside that Arsenal “see him as a player who can lift the collective floor of the back line.”

Wider European Picture

Barcelona’s interest adds an important dimension. Their defensive refresh is a priority and Murillo’s attributes place him high on their list, although financial concerns remain a key obstacle. Nottingham Forest, meanwhile, hold firm at their valuation of €80-90 million and continue to portray themselves as reluctant sellers. Liverpool’s longer-term interest, geared toward 2026, further illustrates the defender’s rising stock.

Nottingham Forest are prepared to listen only if offers approach their conditions, and there is growing expectation within recruitment circles that Murillo could become their record departure.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

For Arsenal Fans, this report reads like welcome evidence of the club maintaining competitive sharpness in the market. Supporters would see Murillo as the type of defender who naturally fits the tactical profile built under Arteta. With the team pressing high and controlling long spells of possession, a centre-back who can step into midfield areas and carry the ball with confidence feels essential. Fans would argue that adding someone with his recovery pace and composure reduces the drop-off whenever key starters are rotated.

There would also be a sense of urgency. Arsenal supporters know the margin in title races has tightened, and depth at centre-back is a crucial differentiator. Many would feel that securing Murillo now prevents rivals from strengthening while protecting Arsenal’s long-term structure.

Chelsea fans, meanwhile, would view this as a continuation of the club’s plan to assemble a younger, technically adept defensive line. The emphasis on possession under Maresca is clear, and supporters would believe Murillo’s style aligns with the direction of travel. Some might question whether another sizeable investment at centre-back is wise given the sums already committed, but many would argue that Murillo represents a level of quality that justifies the fee.

There would also be a mild frustration at rival interest. Chelsea fans have become accustomed to contested transfer battles and would not want to see Arsenal or Barcelona move ahead. From their perspective, Murillo is a player who could accelerate their tactical evolution and provide the stability their defensive structure has lacked.