AliousNottingham Forest has yet to make any new signings in the January transfer window, but the club’s most crucial business so far has been securing a new contract for Murillo.
The Brazilian center-back, who has been one of Forest’s standout performers this season, was rewarded with a new deal on Tuesday, ensuring he remains a key part of Nuno Espirito Santo’s plans. Importantly, no release clause was included in the contract, offering the manager peace of mind that Murillo is committed to the club for the foreseeable future.
Murillo has been integral to Forest’s solid defensive performances this season, forming a strong partnership with Nikola Milenkovic and helping the team achieve nine Premier League clean sheets—matching only Liverpool’s record at the top of the table.
His excellent performances have attracted attention, including from Liverpool, who had considered him as a potential long-term replacement for Virgil van Dijk, particularly after his standout display against them in January. However, despite securing Murillo with a new deal, it seems the interest in the defender has not subsided, with Barcelona now reportedly keen on signing him.
Spanish outlet *Sport* claims Barcelona has been monitoring Murillo’s development since last summer, and with their rivals Real Madrid also scouting him earlier in the season, it’s clear Murillo is on the radar of top European clubs. Barcelona is believed to hope Murillo may push for a move away from Forest, tempted by the opportunity to join one of the continent’s most successful sides.
Alan Shearer has praised Murillo for his performances this season, cementing his status as one of football’s top defensive prospects. However, Forest’s £80 million asking price for the Brazilian might deter some suitors, as it matches the world-record fee for a defender. While some concerns about his size were raised, particularly by Jamie Carragher, Murillo’s performances for Forest have likely quelled those doubts.
The interest in Murillo is not limited to Barcelona, with Chelsea also previously scouting him. Forest’s owner, Evangelos Marinakis, could use the growing interest to spark a bidding war, especially with no release clause in the player’s contract, allowing him to demand whatever price he deems appropriate. Given the financial power of clubs like Barcelona, it seems likely that the defender’s next move will come with a hefty price tag.
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