Chelsea interested in Nottingham Forest defender Murillo as they search for Thiago Silva replacement

06/27/2024 07:28 AM

Chelsea are interested in Nottingham Forest centre-back Murillo, talkSPORT understands.

The Brazilian has caught the attention of new Blues boss Enzo Maresca, however Forest are unlikely to let the defender leave on the cheap.

Forest chiefs value the 21-year-old at around £70million – a huge increase on the £11.2m they paid Brazilian side Corinthians last summer.

Murillo's first campaign in the Premier League was a huge success and he was subsequently named Forest's Player of the Year.

Chelsea have since enquired as to the Brazilian's availability with his age and profile fitting into the club's transfer philosophy.

The west London side are looking for a replacement for Thiago Silva who recently left the club as Meresca searches for more defensive steel ahead of his side's assault on the Premier League and Europa Conference League next season.

The former Leicester City boss currently has Wesley Fofana, Benoit Badiashile, Trevoh Chalobah, Levi Colwill, Alfie Gilchrist and Axel Disasi to call upon in the centre of defence. 

The Blues could also tap into Forest's ongoing financial constraints which led to a four-point deduction last season.

The Midlands club are under pressure to raise much-needed funds before June 30 to comply with the Premier League's Profit and Sustainability Rules.

The sale of defender Moussa Niakhate could help the club avoid further sanctions with the defender in line for a switch to a French Ligue 1 club.

The Senegal star is subject of an offer deemed too good to turn down for Forest with talks ongoing between the interested parties.

The 28-year-old clocked up 21 Premier League appearances last season as Forest avoided relegation to the Championship.

Chelsea face Manchester City in their first game of the new season and are warming up for the 2024/25 Premier League campaign with friendlies against Wrexham, Celtic in addition to City.