Manchester United have identified Nottingham Forest defender Murillo as a top target in their summer rebuild, with the club determined to strengthen a backline that has struggled all season.
According to the Daily Mail, United see the Brazilian centre-back as the ideal long-term successor to Harry Maguire, who is set to leave Old Trafford after seven years at the club.
The Red Devils have kept just two clean sheets all season, both at Old Trafford, showing they are in dire need of reinforcements in their defense.
Injuries, inconsistency and a lack of cohesion have characterized United’s defensive performances, with recruitment departments shifting their focus to centre-backs for next season.
Murillo impressed Man United scouts
Murillo has quickly emerged as one of the most promising young defenders in the Premier League due to his combination of calmness and quality of ball-play.
United’s scouts have monitored him extensively over the past year and believe he fits the modern profile needed to improve their backline.
Mick Brown described the Forest defenders’ defensive ability as “very effective”.
| statistics | premier league | europe league | all competitions |
| number of matches played | 15 | 5 | twenty one |
| the goal | 1 | 0 | 1 |
| assist | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| clean sheet | 2 | 1 | 3 |
| Completing the path | 85% | 82% | 84% |
| yellow card | 3 | 1 | 4 |
| tackle win | 12 | 4 | 16 |
Murillo is open to summer transfer, interest is growing
The 23-year-old Brazilian is reportedly open to leaving Nottingham Forest at the end of the season, with several top clubs in England and Europe also monitoring his situation.
Murillo is an extremely valuable left-handed centre-back in world football, and if Forest are willing to negotiate, it is expected that there will be fierce competition.
His contractual situation strengthens Forest’s negotiating position. Murillo still has three and a half years left on his contract, and a move is likely to involve a huge transfer fee.
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