Chelsea are expected to pursue the signing of a new centre-back in the summer after missing out on Jeremy Jacquet to Liverpool, and Nottingham Forest’s Murillo has emerged as a priority.
Liam Rosenior has a squad that is full of strength in depth. Plenty of players with enormous quality and massive potential, yet there are areas that Rosenior himself would struggle to make the first choice.
Indeed, at centre-back, Chelsea boast Benoit Badiashile, Wesley Fofana, Trevoh Chalobah and Tosin Adarabioyo. Mamadou Sarr is back, Levi Colwill is injured, and Jorrel Hato can play in the middle.
What makes Chelsea so much better defensively when Reece James is playing? 👇
After just a month, Tosin’s injury, Colwill’s absence, and Sarr’s return, it would be impossible for any boss to know their best two central defenders. But that needs to change if Chelsea are to win any trophies.
Chelsea advancing in deal to sign Murillo from Nottingham Forest
While it has only been a short period for Rosenior, perhaps the reason he has been unable to pick a starting centre-back is that none of his options are head and shoulders above the rest of the list.
Nottingham Forest defender Murillo clapping
Photo by MI News/NurPhoto via Getty Images
Well, TeamTalk say Chelsea want Nottingham Forest defender Murillo. It is claimed Forest are under the impression that Murillo has reached his ceiling at the City Ground, and a summer exit is imminent.
Chelsea are ‘advanced’ in their move to land Murillo. Liverpool are level with Chelsea in the race for him, while Tottenham and Man United are trailing. But the situation is ‘fluid’ with Forest hoping for a big fee.
How much Chelsea will have to pay to sign Forest’s Murillo
Indeed, Forest are likely to be counting on a bidding war to get as much cash as possible for the powerhouse defender. It is believed Forest want a whopping £50m for the former Corinthians defender.
Rate Mamadou Sarr’s performance vs Hull City from 1️⃣-🔟
A record holder on your competitive Chelsea debut!
Mamadou Sarr breaks Chelsea record on debut vs Hull City
Photo by Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images
Chelsea are of course, not averse to paying such a fee. They were in talks for Jacquet for more than that, and have spent huge amounts of cash on other players even in defence, Fofana costing north of £70m.
Whether Chelsea can convince Murillo to choose them remains to be seen, especially with the huge competition at Stamford Bridge. Qualification for the Champions League next season could be crucial.
Join Our Newsletter
Receive a digest of our best Chelsea content each week direct to your mailbox