Chelsea have received a major transfer boost ahead of the 2026 summer transfer window.
The Blues are not expected to do anything major in January, but they could be active between next June and August.
Despite Robert Sanchez’s form, AC Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan is still being linked to Chelsea.
The position that Chelsea MUST strengthen in 2026 is _ _ _ _ _ _
Chelsea owner Behdad Eghbali and directors Paul Winstanley and Laurence Stewart at Wolves game
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As well as a new shot-stopper, the Club World Cup winners could also sign a central defender.
Nottingham Forest Murillo running with the ball
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Murillo open to leaving Nottingham Forest next summer
Enzo Maresca is thought to be a fan of Murillo, and the Nottingham Forest star could be on the move at the end of the season.
According to the Daily Mail, Murillo is open to a new challenge next summer in a boost to Chelsea.
The outlet claims that the Conference League holders are admirers of the 23-year-old, while Real Madrid are also interested in him.
Murillo is one of Forest’s best players, making 39 appearances in all competitions for them last term. He is not someone the club will want to lose.
However, if Chelsea or Real Madrid come in with a big bid and the Brazilian is keen to leave the City Ground, they may not be able to do much.
Nottingham Forest FC v Malmo FF - UEFA Europa League 2025/26 League Phase MD5
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Murillo an expert at intercepting and blocking
If Chelsea do go on to sign Murillo, they will be getting a centre-half who is exceptional at making interceptions and blocks.
As per FBref, Murillo is making 1.55 interceptions and 1.88 blocks per 90 minutes. It puts him in the 90th and 97th percentiles among his positional peers.
Chelsea need to make room before they can sign another centre-back. Who are you getting rid of?
Levi Colwill is definitely untouchable ❌
Chelsea’s list of first-team centre-backs
Levi Colwill
Wesley Fofana
Trevoh Chalobah
Benoit Badiashile
Tosin Adarabioyo
Josh Acheampong
Trevoh Chalobah of Chelsea celebrates scoring his team's goal with teammate Wesley Fofana
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Chelsea’s defensive record in the Premier League this season has actually been good. They have only conceded 15 goals after 15 games.
However, they could do with a dominant defender who is ready to put his body on the line. Perhaps Murillo could be that man.
Chelsea are guilty of conceding soft goals and usually when they are in front. Tuesday night’s loss to Atalanta in the Champions League was a perfect example.
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