Chelsea are now seriously challenging Manchester United in the race for an "incredible" Premier League star, and his stance on a Stamford Bridge move has been revealed.
Blues eyeing alternative for Jacquet
The Blues did attempt to bring in a centre-back during the January transfer window, but they were unsuccessful in their pursuit of both Nantes star Tylel Tati and Rennes' Jeremy Jacquet, with the latter ultimately deciding to join Liverpool.
As such, Liam Rosenior will have to work with his current crop of defenders between now and the end of the season, although the manager will have a fresh face to call upon, with Mamadou Sarr being brought back from Strasbourg in an Aaron Anselmino swap deal.
That said, at just 20-years-old, Sarr is still inexperienced, and the same goes for Josh Acheampong, so it would perhaps be a savvy move to bring in a more proven centre-back during the summer transfer window, and a Premier League star is now a target.
That is according to a report from TEAMtalk, which states Chelsea are now seriously challenging Man United for the signature of Nottingham Forest defender Murillo, who has also been linked with a move to Real Madrid.
Murillo would consider a move away from the Premier League, but he is happy in England, and the Spanish side may not be willing to meet Forest's valuation.
Nottingham Forest's Murillo celebrates scoring their first goal
The Blues' interest comes amid doubts over the futures of Benoit Badiashile and Tosin Adarabioyo, with decisions about whether the duo will remain at Stamford Bridge set to be made later this year.
"Incredible" Murillo could be exactly what Chelsea need
It remains to be seen whether Sarr can hit the ground running in England, whereas the Nottingham Forest star could be exactly what Chelsea need, having already proven himself in the Premier League across a total of 86 appearances.
Chelsea's Pedro Neto celebrates after the match Related
[Chelsea now preparing £43m offer for "incredible" star who may replace Neto](https://www.footballfancast.com/chelsea-now-preparing-transfer-offer-nico-paz-pedro-neto/ "Chelsea now preparing £43m offer for "incredible" star who may replace Neto")
A bid is in the works.
Lauded as "incredible" by journalist Ryan Taylor, the Brazil international has averaged a combined three interceptions and tackles per 90 in the Premier League this season, the third-highest number in the Forest squad.
An average of 44.8 passes per 90 ranks him in third place, with the 23-year-old clearly comfortable getting on the ball, and he displayed his ability in the opposition box at Anfield back in November.
Murillo, who earns £75k-a-week, evidently has the ability to be a success at Chelsea, and interestingly, Simon Phillips has now revealed the centre-back is keen on a move to Stamford Bridge.