Chelsea have made an approach to sign Nottingham Forest defender Murillo, according to reports in Brazil.
Enzo Maresca’s side are in the market for a new central defender following the departure of Thiago Silva and have already made a move for Boca Juniors’ highly rated 19-year-old defender Aaron Anselmino.
However, Chelsea are also looking to recruit a defender who can immediately challenge for a first-team place and Murillo fits the club’s profile after an impressive debut season at Forest.
The 21-year-old joined the Premier League in a £15 million deal from Brazilian side Corinthians last August and was one of Forest’s standout performers last term as they narrowly avoided relegation.
According to Brazilian outlet UOL, Chelsea have now approached Forest to discuss a deal for Murillo but the club are demanding a £50 million fee for the centre-back.
It’s reported that Chelsea have informed Forest that they will not match their valuation and are considering offering two players as part of their bid in order to offset the transfer fee.
Atletico Madrid have also expressed a strong interest in signing Murillo and have already held talks with the defender’s representatives.
However, the Spanish club are also put off by Forest’s £50m asking price.
Speaking last week on Brazilian show Os Donos da Bola, Murillo indicated that he is open to leaving Forest after just one season.
‘I’ve received a few offers. Some official, others sounding out,’ Murillo said.
‘I’ll take it up with my agent. They were clubs from England, Italy and Germany.
‘If I stay at Nottingham, I’ll do my best. If I leave, I hope they respect my decision. I’m calm and analysing it in the best way.’
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