Murillo to Chelsea? Blues consider Forest defender as Silva successor.
Chelsea are aiming to dig into the English market to close the defensive gap with the league’s Champions League contenders, as the West Londoners increase their interest in Nottingham Forest defender Murillo, according to The Athletic.
The Blues are in desperate need of a new center-back in the forthcoming summer transfer window, following personnel losses in the position. Thiago Silva, a Brazilian center-back, is likely to leave Chelsea this summer after four great years, and the club could replace the former PSG veteran with another Brazilian CB.
Thiago may not be the only defender to leave in the offseason, as Trevoh Chalobah is rumored to be on his way out of Chelsea.
Bargain alert! Chelsea preparing to swoop on Forest’s wonderkid defender.
According to The Athletic, Todd Boehly & Co. are one of the clubs keeping an eye on the 21-year-old for a prospective summer transfer. Despite Nottingham Forest’s low position in the English top-tier, Murillo had several outstanding performances this season.
With PSR compliance becoming more stringent each season, Forest may be forced to sell a marquee player this summer, and who better for Chelsea to target than their player of the season [2023/24] Murillo?
Player turned commentator. Pundit Jamie Redknapp believes he would be an outstanding value at the projected sum Forest will pay for his services, and he has showered praise on the player. Speaking to Sky Sports, the former Spurs midfielder stated:.
“He has a lot of weapons in his arsenal. He has a beautiful left foot, which offers you a significant edge. Is he capable of defending? Yes.
“Then he transforms into prime Roberto Carlos with this incredible feat of ability. Can modern center-backs accomplish that?
“He also enjoys defending.” He’s definitely more advanced (in the example provided), yet he wants to build blocks. He’s just 21 years old. They reportedly spent £13 million for him. He appears to be a great bargain. It’s never easy to acclimate to the Premier League, but he’s done it quickly and effortlessly.”
Chelsea will have to compete with other Premier League clubs for his talents, and it remains to be seen whether they will go all out to secure his signing.
