Real Madrid Are Locked In A Three-Way Battle For This Premier League Ace: Good Option For Alonso? | OneFootball

In a recent report, Fichajes claimed that Real Madrid are locked in a three-way battle for Nottingham Forest ace Murillo. It has been revealed that Los Blancos would have to rival Bayern Munich and Chelsea in the race to land the Brazilian defender next year.

Murillo’s Impressive Form In The Premier League

Murillo enjoyed a good run of form at the Midlands club in the previous campaign when he produced a series of impressive displays for them in the Premier League. The Brazilian talent participated in 39 matches for Nottingham last season, netting two goals across all competitions.

The 23-year-old was a reliable performer on the defensive end of the field as he made 53 tackles, 69 blocks, 36 interceptions and 249 clearances in the Premier League. He was even excellent when distributing possession from the back, based on his pass success rate of 78.5% in the top tier of English football (stats via fbref.com).

His current contract at City Ground will run out in the summer of 2029. Hence, Los Blancos would have to make a convincing offer if they are serious about recruiting the Brazilian defensive ace next year.

NOTTINGHAM, ENGLAND – AUGUST 09: Murillo of Nottingham Forest looks on during the pre-season friendly match between Nottingham Forest v Al Qadsiah at City Ground on August 09, 2025 in Nottingham, England. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

Is Murillo A Good Option For Real Madrid?

Murillo is a solid tackler of the ball and can time his challenges well to earn possession back for his team inside his half. He usually clears his lines when the opposition are on the offensive and can even play his way out from the defensive end of the field.

The Brazilian talent has proven himself to be a consistent performer in the Premier League. However, only time will tell whether he can make a smooth transition to life in La Liga if Los Blancos manage to snap him up next year.

We can expect Murillo to add more quality and depth to Real Madrid head coach Xabi Alonso’s defence. He is good enough to challenge for a regular first-team spot at the Madrid club in the coming years.

At 23, Murillo has his best years ahead of him, which makes him a decent option for the Madrid giants to consider this January or at the end of this campaign. However, Alonso has to give him some time to settle into life at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium.