Ever since Levi Colwill picked up an ACL injury in pre-season, Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has been crying out for a new centre-back to join the club.
The Blues have been linked with a move for their former academy product, Marc Guehi, for a substantial period of time, but now they look set to walk away from a deal for the Crystal Palace man.
Enzo Maresca’s team had been monitoring Guéhi’s situation closely, given his background at the Cobham Academy and his impending contract expiry at Crystal Palace next summer.
However, with the England international now tipped for a move to Liverpool or Real Madrid, Chelsea have shifted their focus toward Murillo, a player who has been on their radar since the summer.
Under the stewardship of Maresca, Chelsea are still trying to build a team that can compete for the Premier League title in the near future.
The signing of an experienced and Premier League-proven centre-back is certain to take them a step closer to winning the league.
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Chelsea set their sights on Murillo from Nottingham Forest
Chelsea have signed a whole host of young attacking talent in their attempts to bolster their squad in the recent past.
The likes of Joao Pedro, Alejandro Garnacho, Jamie Gittens and others joined the club to add more depth and quality to the squad.
The Italian manager, who favours a possession-based system with defenders comfortable on the ball, views Murillo as an ideal fit for his backline.
The 23-year-old Brazilian has impressed since arriving at Nottingham Forest from Corinthians in 2023, quickly establishing himself as one of the most promising young centre-backs in the Premier League.
Murillo’s performances have already caught the eye of multiple top clubs across Europe, including Barcelona and Arsenal. Still, according to a report in the Daily Express, Chelsea are leading the race against other competitors.
Moreover, Chelsea’s injury issues in defence this season have highlighted the need for reinforcements.
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