Liverpool are set to launch a massive €80m war chest to hijack the race for Nottingham Forest’s standout centre-back Murillo, the Brazilian superstar who Manchester United have reportedly been “locked in talks” with all summer!
According to reports from Spanish outlet Fichajes and echoed by sources like TEAMtalk and CaughtOffside, Arne Slot’s Liverpool are preparing a bold €80m (£69m / $93m) bid to secure the 23-year-old defender in the upcoming summer transfer window. This move could deliver a major blow to rivals Manchester United, who have been heavily linked with the player and even described as being in advanced discussions with Nottingham Forest.
Murillo, born in Sao Paulo and a product of the Corinthians academy, burst onto the scene with just 27 senior appearances for his boyhood club before making the €12m switch to Forest in August 2023. Since then, the one-cap Brazil international has established himself as one of the Premier League’s most exciting young centre-backs. Blessed with exceptional strength, pace, vision, and close control, he excels at stepping out from the back to launch attacks, making him a modern defensive powerhouse capable of handling elite strikers.
Liverpool view Murillo as a priority target and a “perfect” long-term addition to future-proof their backline. With club captain Virgil van Dijk now 34 and entering the twilight of his career, the Reds see the Brazilian as a potential successor. They’ve already secured Jeremy Jacquet from Rennes for the summer, but more defensive reinforcements are needed—especially with uncertainties around Joe Gomez (tipped to depart) and Ibrahima Konate (whose future is unclear despite a big new contract offer).
The €80m valuation aligns with Forest’s strong negotiating position, as the defender is under contract until 2029 and could command a huge fee—particularly if Forest face relegation to the Championship. Multiple big clubs have been circling, including Chelsea (who have done extensive groundwork and were previously frontrunners) and Manchester United.
United were said to be “locked in talks” for Murillo as part of a potential raid on Forest talents, but the latest developments suggest Liverpool are now making decisive moves to steal him away. Sources indicate a transfer becomes “increasingly likely” if a bid in the £60-70m range (up to €81m) arrives, and Liverpool appear ready to meet or exceed that threshold.
This could mark a statement signing for the Reds, landing a “superb superstar” who’s been turning heads in the Premier League. If the deal goes through, it would not only bolster Anfield’s defence but also serve as a double setback for Manchester United’s summer plans.
Watch this space—Anfield is gearing up for a big splash! 🚨🔴