Manchester United are outlining plans to sign a new central defender this summer, with Nottingham Forest star Murillo among the shortlisted names, according to journalist Pete Hall.
The Old Trafford side are looking to address their depleted defensive options after the season, as both Lisandro Martinez and Matthijs de Ligt are out injured.
Martinez picked up a calf injury last month and is unlikely to return for United’s visit to Aston Villa on Sunday, while De Ligt has been out for three months with a back issue.
Injury problems have forced United to make a defensive signing a priority for the summer, alongside plans to strengthen in midfield, left-back and left wing.
Man Utd Keeping Tabs on Murillo
murillo
According to Hall, Murillo is not pushing to leave Forest this summer, having only signed a new contract until 2029 at the start of the year.
However, the situation could change significantly if Forest are relegated – Vitor Pereira’s side are level on points with 18th-placed West Ham at the moment.
The likes of Liverpool, Chelsea and Real Madrid could bring competition to the table for United, as all three clubs are reportedly closely monitoring 'monster' Murillo this season.
Murillo, reportedly valued at £70m by Forest, joined the Tricky Trees from Corinthians in the summer of 2023 and has made 89 Premier League appearances since, scoring three goals.
United Considering Harry Maguire’s Future
harry maguire
Injuries to Martinez and De Ligt could also push United to offer a new contract for Harry Maguire, whose current terms expire at the end of the season.
The 33-year-old has been an important player under Michael Carrick and could end up staying at Old Trafford on a reduced salary.
Maguire has started every single Premier League game of Carrick’s tenure so far, playing the full 90 minutes in six of the eight games.
Man Utd Remain Keen on Elliot Anderson
Elliot Anderson
Manchester United have not given up hope of signing Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson this summer, despite strong interest from rivals Manchester City.
According to GIVEMESPORT senior correspondent Ben Jacobs, the Old Trafford side are expected to ‘go big’ on a deal for Anderson, who is expected to leave Forest after the season.
United’s top summer priority remains a new signing in midfield, as they look to replace Casemiro, whose contract expires in June.
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