Bayern and Chelsea face off for Nottingham Forest star | OneFootball

Bayern’s Defensive Reshuffle on the Horizon

Bayern Munich’s interest in Murillo is part of a wider plan to strengthen their defensive unit ahead of the 2025–26 campaign. With Dayot Upamecano yet to agree a new contract and Kim Min-jae also attracting external interest, the Bavarian club are expected to move decisively for a centre-back next summer.

Sources close to the Bundesliga champions have confirmed that Murillo has been added to their shortlist, with a fee of around £43.5 million likely to be required to prise him away from Nottingham Forest. Bayern officials believe his technical quality, physicality, and composure on the ball fit seamlessly into their system. His relatively modest salary at Forest would also make him a financially manageable target.

A senior figure close to the club revealed that Bayern see Murillo as a “realistic option” and that his Premier League experience adds to his appeal. However, securing his signature will not be straightforward.

Chelsea Monitoring Situation Closely

Chelsea are also keeping tabs on Murillo as manager Enzo Maresca continues reshaping his squad. The Blues boast depth in defence, but several exits are being considered ahead of 2026, including that of Axel Disasi.

Club sources have indicated that Chelsea are exploring options to add a younger, ball-playing defender capable of fitting into Maresca’s possession-based approach. Murillo’s ability to progress the ball under pressure and his calmness in tight spaces have drawn admiration from the Stamford Bridge hierarchy.

Should Bayern delay their move, Chelsea could be tempted to strike first — especially with Forest understood to be open to discussions if their valuation is met.

Murillo’s Rise at Nottingham Forest

Since joining Nottingham Forest in 2023, Murillo has emerged as one of the Premier League’s most reliable young defenders. His performances last season were instrumental in helping Forest stabilise their position in the top flight, and he has already made four starts in the current campaign.

Forest moved quickly to secure his long-term future, handing him a contract extension until 2029. However, his growing profile has inevitably attracted elite suitors across Europe. Reports earlier this year suggested Real Madrid had shown preliminary interest, prompting Forest to strengthen his deal.

Despite that, sources suggest that an offer exceeding £43m could still test Forest’s resolve, particularly if multiple clubs express formal interest before the end of the season.

Bayern’s Wider Transfer Strategy

While Murillo is high on Bayern’s list, the club are also keeping an eye on other defensive targets. Marc Guehi of Crystal Palace is another name under consideration, particularly given his contract situation. Guehi is out of contract in 2026, and Bayern believe they could secure his services either on a cut-price deal next year or for free the following summer.

Meanwhile, Nico Schlotterbeck of Borussia Dortmund remains on their long-term radar. The German international’s consistency in the Bundesliga continues to impress Bayern scouts, although any move for him would likely depend on Dortmund’s stance and valuation.

For now, Murillo remains one of the standout options, and Bayern’s pursuit could accelerate once clarity emerges over Upamecano’s contract situation. With Chelsea also circling, a cross-continental transfer battle may be brewing for one of South America’s brightest defensive exports.