Manchester United have identified Nottingham Forest's standout centre-back Murillo as a prime transfer target as they plan a defensive overhaul for next season.
United's Search for a New Defender
The 23-year-old Brazilian has emerged as a leading candidate on the club's shortlist. United's recruitment drive is set against the anticipated departure of experienced defender Harry Maguire, creating a significant vacancy in their back line.
Murillo's Rise to Prominence
Since his £10 million move from Corinthians in 2023, Murillo has rapidly established himself as one of the Premier League's most exciting young defenders. His powerful, left-footed performances at the City Ground have drawn consistent admiration from the division's wealthiest clubs.
As Daily Mail Sport first revealed in December, the player is open to a move next summer. This stance remains despite him signing a new and improved four-and-a-half-year contract with Forest as recently as January 2025.
Factors Influencing the Potential Transfer
Several key elements could play a decisive role in any deal:
- European Football: United's ability to secure Champions League qualification would significantly strengthen their negotiating position when pursuing a player of Murillo's calibre.
- Forest's Situation: Unless Nottingham Forest win the Europa League, they will not be competing in Europe's premier club competition next season, which may influence the player's decision.
- Personal Circumstances: While Murillo and his family are reportedly settled in Nottingham, his exceptional performances have kept him firmly on the radar of the continent's elite clubs.
Murillo's formidable partnership with Nikola Milenkovic was instrumental in Forest's impressive campaign last season, where they came within a whisker of qualifying for the Champions League. Regarded as one of the best pieces of business in the Evangelos Marinakis era at Forest, his potential acquisition would mark a major statement from Manchester United as they look to rebuild.
