Maresca saw his young players dominate on Wednesday nightplaceholder image
Maresca saw his young players dominate on Wednesday night | AFP via Getty Images
Chelsea are hot on the heels of Arsenal in the Premier League and plans are afoot to strengthen in January.
Chelsea have yet to hit top gear this season and yet somehow find themselves in second place in the Premier League and leading the chasing pack.
Enzo Maresca has a lengthy injury list to contend with and will be hoping that the return of key players can see the Blues put some pressure on an Arsenal side that is currently cruising to the Premier League title thanks to a resolute defence and a clinical forward line.
Swap deal Chelsea could make for Murillo
The Brazil international has been linked with Chelsea before and even saw reports of a swap move involving Trevor Chalobah, however, nothing concrete materialised. Ironically, Murillo could now be targeted to partner Chalobah who has barely missed a minute all season and who has become a first pick in the right-sided centre-half role. As a natural left footer, Murillo would add much needed balance to the back four even if his lack of height (under 6ft tall) for a modern centre-half might be a concern in a more direct Premier League.
The biggest stumbling block over any potential transfer would be Forest’s relegation battle and their not wanting to lose one of their key players halfway through the season. To soften the blow, Chelsea should offer a swap deal, although this time it shouldn’t be one that involves Chalobah given his inflated importance to the team. With only 111 minutes in the Premier League so far this season, Chelsea could afford to lose Benoît Badiashile, especially if Murillo is heading in the opposite direction.
There are similarities between the pair in terms of age and profile plus, both are left-footed. Having been capped by France, Badiashile will be wanting to play more regularly in the hope that he can force his way back into the international fold.
Murillo on Chelsea interest
Murillo addressed previous speculation linking him with a move to Stamford Bridge on the Benja Me Mucho YouTube channel: “I don't know if it’s 70 (million), but I know there was a buzz of interest. So, I don't know exactly how much the amount is, but I know there was interest. I've received a few offers.
“Some official, others sounding out. I'll take it up with my manager. They were clubs from England, Italy and Germany. If I stay at Nottingham, I'll do my best. If I leave, I hope they respect my decision. I'm calm and analysing it in the best way."
The 23-year old named several clubs that he would be interested in joining should he leave Forest and it won’t be a surprise to his club if he knocks on Sean Dyche’s door and says that he wants to leave. Murillo wouldn’t be cheap, however, with a France international to soften the blow, Chelsea could strengthen their defence and improve their chances of catching Arsenal at the top of the table.
Murillo has also been linked with Arsenal and if the Blues would be ready to offer a swap, it could help them win the race for the defender.
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