Report: Chelsea considering blockbuster move for 23-year-old Premier League star | OneFootball

Chelsea target Nottingham Forest’s ‘amazing’ defender in January move

Defensive concerns shaping Chelsea’s January priorities

Chelsea’s early season form has been a mix of promise and frustration. Despite a thrilling 2-1 win over Liverpool, Enzo Maresca’s side have struggled for rhythm, winning only three of their first seven Premier League matches. Injuries have disrupted continuity, with Levi Colwill’s absence compounded by setbacks for Tosin Adarabioyo and Wesley Fofana.

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According to Football Insider, Chelsea are now prioritising a new centre-back in the January window, with Nottingham Forest’s Murillo emerging as a leading target. The 23-year-old Brazilian, who made a strong impression last season, is seen as a player capable of reinforcing a defence that has looked vulnerable at key moments.

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Murillo’s growing reputation and Chelsea’s admiration

Former Manchester United and Sunderland chief scout Mick Brown described Murillo as “a really, really good player” and confirmed that Chelsea have been monitoring him closely. “Murillo has done a really, really good job for Forest,” Brown told Football Insider. “He was a big part of their success last season, but it hasn’t quite clicked for him or for them this season so a few questions might start being asked.”

The timing may be favourable for Chelsea. If Forest’s struggles persist, the club could find themselves under pressure to offload key assets. Brown added, “If Forest continue to struggle, they could look to take advantage of that situation to tempt him away. I think he’d certainly be an improvement on what they’ve got currently.”

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Murillo’s composure, aerial dominance and comfort on the ball have caught the eye of several Premier League clubs. His former teammate Joe Worrall once labelled him “amazing”, reflecting the esteem in which he is held within the dressing room.

Maresca’s system and the need for defensive balance

Maresca’s tactical philosophy depends on a composed back line, capable of building play from deep. That ambition has at times been undermined by uncertainty and inexperience at centre-back. Chelsea’s defenders have looked exposed in transitions, particularly against sides willing to press high.

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Murillo’s ability to operate under pressure and progress the ball efficiently aligns well with Maresca’s system. The Blues’ recruitment in recent windows has leaned heavily on youth and technical ability, and Murillo’s age profile and playing style fit that template perfectly.

January opportunity could define Chelsea’s season

Chelsea’s hierarchy are aware that defensive stability will determine their trajectory this season. A move for Murillo could be decisive, especially with the club eager to push into the top four. As Brown noted, “Chelsea need a centre-back, they’re not good enough at the back to challenge for the title. They are aware of that and it’s something they’re going to look at in January.”

A deal for Murillo might not only strengthen the back line but also reinforce belief that Maresca’s project is building towards something more enduring.

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Chelsea’s Defence has looked fragile, and a commanding, confident centre-back such as Murillo could bring the kind of assurance that has been missing since Thiago Silva’s peak years.

Fans will see this as a signal of intent from the board. The potential signing of Murillo would fit perfectly with Maresca’s tactical blueprint, blending youth, control and aggression. Supporters have grown weary of stop-gap fixes and want players who can define the next generation. Murillo’s profile ticks every box.

His ability to read danger, play out from the back and step into midfield when needed makes him a natural fit for this evolving Chelsea side. There is a sense of excitement, not just about one player, but about what this kind of recruitment represents: planning, precision and purpose.