- Murillo has caught the eye of Manchester United
- Could cost upwards of £70m
- Played three seasons in the Premier League
Nottingham Forest have reportedly slapped a £70 million price tag on Murillo, with Manchester United weighing up a move as they look to reinforce their defensive line.
Injuries have started to shape that thinking. Matthijs de Ligt has not featured since the 2–1 win over Crystal Palace on 30 November, and the severity of the issue casts doubt on his short-term availability.
On paper, United still possess depth at centre-back. De Ligt, Lisandro Martinez, Harry Maguire, Leny Yoro and Ayden Heaven have all featured regularly this season.
However, with persistent concerns also surrounding Martinez’s fitness, Omar Berrada and Jason Wilcox may look to sanction significant investment to bring greater stability to the back line.
Brazilian to United?
Brazilian sports outlet Lance has reported that Manchester United are interested in signing the Nottingham Forest star. Fraser Fletcher, TEAMtalk’s transfer reporter, previously stated:
“Murillo’s left-footedness makes him an appealing fit for Manchester United’s defensive needs.”
The left-footed centre-back would cost United a hefty amount, with the Brazilian expected to come in at the £60-£70 million price range.
This makes Murillo the third Forest player United have their eyes set on, with the Red Devils also weighing up moves for midfielder Elliot Anderson and Morgan Gibbs-White.
With Forest currently languishing in 16th, just three points above West Ham in the relegation zone, there is a real chance all three could help the club avoid the drop, allowing United to sign the Brazilian for a lower fee.
Could Murillo Come?
It is highly unlikely we will see the Brazilian move to Manchester United. While the Reds are planning a summer overhaul, the centre-back position is far from their most pressing concern.
De Ligt, Maguire, Yoro, Heaven, Martinez and Tyler Fredricson form the club’s central defensive options. Luke Shaw and Noussair Mazraoui have also stepped in at the back when required, something Ruben Amorim has leaned on during his time in charge.
The only reason United would be looking to add another addition to an already stacked position was if there were serious injury concerns over de Ligt and Martinez.
What is more likely, however, is that United focuses on teammate Anderson. The club has found itself in a tug-of-war, with Manchester City now ramping up their efforts to sign the Englishman.
