Chelsea are already targeting a specific signing this summer, as Liam Rosenior looks to overhaul his defensive setup ahead of the upcoming transfer window.
While Rosenior does have a number of centre-backs to choose from, none have really nailed down the role. Wesley Fofana and Trevoh Chalobah are likely his preferred pairing at the moment, with Benoit Badiashile and Mamadou Sarr offering depth behind them.
Tosin Adarabioyo is nearing full fitness, and Levi Colwill is also working his way back after a long spell out. On top of that, two more defenders are currently out on loan.
Axel Disasi is unlikely to feature for Chelsea again after moving on loan to West Ham, while Aaron Anselmino continues his development at Strasbourg. Despite the numbers, there’s still no one who stands out as a clear first-choice option each week.
Chelsea target Murillo, Brazilian defender open to move
Over the weekend, Chelsea were linked with a move for Murillo, with reports suggesting that it would take £50m to prise him away from Corinthians. Caught Offside has now labelled the Brazilian a ‘priority’ for the club.
The report echoes what was mentioned earlier in the weekend — Tottenham, Manchester United and Liverpool are all said to be interested. But there’s also a sense that Chelsea are making real progress towards an agreement, with his departure from Forest looking more and more likely.
It’s not just Premier League clubs showing interest either. According to Caught Offside, PSG, Real Madrid and even Saudi Arabian teams are also in the mix. But Murillo is understood to prefer staying in England.
Murillo speaks on what comes next for him in English football
It’s rare to see a player openly talk about wanting a move elsewhere, but Murillo did just that in 2024 after spending a year at City Ground. He didn’t hide his preference for Manchester City.
Speaking on the Benja Me Mucho podcast, Murillo said he would also be open to joining Liverpool: “I’d choose Man City, but it would be more difficult to be a regular starter given the players they have in their squad.
“I wouldn’t discard Liverpool either; it would be a good opportunity for me to show my football in a big club,” Murillo added, showing clear ambition but potentially giving Chelsea supporters something to think about.
Still, Murillo has the qualities needed at the back. He’s comfortable carrying the ball out from defence and can pick out passes others might not see. Whether Chelsea can persuade him remains to be seen.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
