A split image of Arne Slot and Sean Dycheplaceholder image
A split image of Arne Slot and Sean Dyche | Getty Images
This potential player swap deal could see both Premier League rivals get what they want
Liverpool are looking to sign a new centre-back in 2026 to bolster their defensive concerns and there are several names who have been linked with a potential move to Anfield recently.
The Reds are enduring a tough season as things stand and have shipped the most goals of any other team in the Premier League’s top ten. Defence has been a praising point of Liverpool’s in recent years - they conceded just 41 goals throughout their entire league-winning campaign, with only Arsenal letting in fewer throughout the season.
However, defence is now a concern for Arne Slot and signing a centre-back is a key focus of Liverpool’s as we head into the new year.
As things stand, the Reds have just three recognised senior centre-backs on their roster who are fit to play, in Virgil van Dijk, Ibrahima Konate and Joe Gomez. Summer signing Giovanni Leoni is out long-term with an ACL injury.
Liverpool interested in Nottingham Forest’s Murillo
Liverpool have multiple targets to consider once the transfer window opens. Gomez came close to leaving Anfield over the summer, meaning he could be open to a move next year as well, in search of a more regular role.
Konate’s future is also in doubt as the end of his contract approaches, meanwhile Van Dijk is headed for his 35th birthday.
Central defence has become quite an urgent point to address for Liverpool. They have been linked with Nottingham Forest centre-back Murillo for a while now, and had even explored a possible deal for him back in January. CaughtOffside described Liverpool as a ‘main suitor’ for the Brazilian’s signature head of the summer.
Of course, the main focus of the summer became Marc Guehi, which unravelled in the final hours of the transfer window.
Murillo has been crucial for Nottingham Forest, especially during their European football push last season. Naturally, it will take a decent deal to convince them to part ways with such an important player.
Liverpool could propose swap deal to land Murillo
Last season, Murillo averaged more clearances, tackles, interceptions and blocks than Konate per 90 minutes (via WhoScored?). His no-nonsense approach to defending is an appealing part of his gameplay and would help boost Liverpool’s moments where their defenders have been caught out or look lost trying to shut down play.
While money may also need to be involved in a potential deal, Liverpool could offer up a player to sweeten the deal and lower the price.
Over the summer, reports suggested Murillo would cost in excess of £80 million. While Forest’s form has fallen since then, the club likely still value him pretty high and won’t be willing to let him go easy.
Liverpool can find some cash to start with but throwing in Harvey Elliott could see both Premier League clubs get what they want. Over the summer, Forest showed ‘active interest’ in signing Elliott before his loan move to Aston Villa, which now looks set to end prematurely in January.
Forest are struggling this season compared to their impressive run last term and while a number of issues need addressing, they are in serious need of more attacking firepower.
The East Midlands side have scored the fewest goals of club above the bottom three so far this season. With just 14 on the board, only basement side Wolves have found the back of the net fewer times.
Nottingham Forest’s efforts last season proved they are a top side to contend with on their day. Right now, they just need their spark back to climb the table and get away from danger. Elliott could be an ideal target to bring to the City Ground and it’s likely he would be made a regular starter as well, which is what he has desperately been looking for.
The versatile attacker has impressed over the years at Liverpool with his ability to play on the wing or in midfield, while always giving his best effort and showcasing how hard he works. This could be exactly what Forest need to unlock a new level to their attack and flip their season on its head.
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