Chelsea in Real Madrid battle for €84m Premier League ace

Tom Weber

Updated: 11 Feb 2025 17:06 GMT
3 min read

Chelsea and Real Madrid have been informed that Murillo is 'likely to leave' Nottingham Forest in the summer, according to a report.

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The Brazilian centre-back has been nothing short of outstanding for the Tricky Trees since joining in summer 2023. Murillo has established himself as one of the Premier League's best defenders and he is a key reason behind Nottingham Forest's success this season.

This has unsurprisingly attracted the attention of other clubs and the 22-year-old has been linked with Europe's elite basically ever since he emerged on the scene in English football.

Chelsea and Real Madrid are the European behemoths currently associated with the defender and TEAMtalk claims that 'some sources' familiar with the player's situation believe that he is 'likely to leave' Forest in the summer.

A tentative initial price tag of €84 million has been slapped on Murillo's head, but this is subject to potential change should Forest manage to qualify for the Champions League at the end of the season.

Chelse want more defenders

Chelsea's interest in Murillo is unsurprising given that they are determined to add more defenders to their squad in the summer. They are thought to have already wrapped up a deal for Mamadou Sarr from sister club Strasbourg but will look to bring in at least one more centre-back.

A host of options have been linked with the Blues, ranging from former academy star Marc Guehi to breakout Bournemouth youngster Dean Huijsen. Indeed, the above-mentioned outlet recently reported that the latter was keen on moving to Stamford Bridge in the next window.

As for Real Madrid, here too it is clear why Murillo has emerged on their radar. Los Blancos have been in a defensive crisis all season due to persistent injuries. They are determined to revamp their backline in the summer and are also targeting Arsenal superstar William Saliba.