Exclusive: Liverpool join Real Madrid in race to sign £80m defender but may have to wait until 2026
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- Exclusive with Graeme Bailey.
Liverpool are continuing to monitor Nottingham Forest centre-back Murillo as a potential transfer target, Rousing The Kop understands.
Murillo has been one of European football’s most outstanding defenders this season, helping Nuno Espirito Santo’s side to third-place in the Premier League table.
The 22-year-old’s good form has resulted in Forest handing him an improved contract, which Murillo officially signed on Tuesday.
And although Liverpool remain interested in Murillo, RTK understands that the Brazilian is in no hurry to leave the City Ground.
Furthermore, Forest are determined to keep the former Corinthians talent and it is not anticipated that Murillo will leave before summer of 2026.
Liverpool among long-term Murillo suitors
Murillo has been a huge reason behind Forest conceding only 22 goals in the Premier League this season.
His good form has naturally led to admiring glances from potential suitors and RTK understand that Liverpool are among the sides interested.
Real Madrid and Barcelona are also tracking Murillo’s progress and there’s understood to be an acceptance that when he does move on, it will only be to one of Europe’s top clubs.
In the meantime, though, Forest remain determined to fend off interest over the next 18 months.
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Murillo’s new contract does not contain a release clause and RTK have been informed that any offers below £80m will not be entertained by Forest.
Should Liverpool – or any other team – be willing to pay over £80m for Murillo this summer, it’s understood that the Nottingham side would be forced to consider these proposals, despite their ‘not for sale’ stance.
Liverpool consider Murillo alternatives
While Liverpool are understood to be great admirers of Murillo, he is not the only name on their shortlist as a centre-back signing.
RTK understands that the Reds are still primarily identifying a left-footed defender and are assessing their options ahead of a summer purchase.
And with that in mind, Liverpool are understood to maintain hope of signing Jarrad Branthwaite from Everton.
Branthwaite remains on Liverpool’s shortlist, and RTK have been informed that Chelsea’s Levi Colwill remains another player of real interest to the Reds.
