Arsenal and Barcelona are locked in a fight to sign one of the PL’s brightest young defenders, Murillo from Nottingham Forest.
Nottingham Forest defender being tracked by Arsenal & Barca
Murillo’s breakthrough season at Nottingham Forest has now made him one of the players to keep an eye on by the top clubs. Even though he is only 23, the centre-back is showing technical ability and composure of a veteran defender.
The player is strong in duels and reads the game well. He carries the ball out from defence making him very much a rare breed in the transfer market. His performances have been so good he is already deemed one of the best defenders in the PL.
His growth curve is suggesting there is much more to come. Being at the heart of defence produces a steady presence that gives Forest a backbone. This is why you can see the club isn’t ready to rush in letting him go.
Top Clubs Eyeing a Move
Arsenal and Barcelona are leading the chase for Murillo, each for different reasons. Barcelona see him as a future cornerstone in central defence, a technical and young replacement after Inigo Martínez’s exit. Arsenal also require a left-footed defender to compete with and give competition to Gabriel Magalhaes and provide long-term stability.
Chelsea has also shown interest earlier this year. Although, the move didn’t go through. Forest values Murillo at €70-80m. That price tag shows both his potential and current importance to the squad. For Arsenal and Barca, landing him would be a strategic move for squad building. For Murillo, it could be the next step in a career that is already shaping up to be great.
Author’s Opinion:
Murillo is exactly the kind of player top clubs target. He is a blend of youth, skill, and mental toughness. Whoever signs him could have a defensive rock for years to come.