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Chelsea leading race to sign £70m Brazilian star

18 February 2026 - 20:33

Chelsea are leading Liverpool in the pursuit of Nottingham Forest defender Murillo ahead of the summer transfer window.

Arsenal star has signed new £300,000 per week contract

Predicted Arsenal line-up (4-2-3-1) vs Wolves, Bukayo Saka starts

The west London giants are likely to recruit a new centre-back in the summer and Murillo has emerged as a top target for the hierarchy.

Liverpool are likewise interested in the Brazilian ace, but the Blues have the upper hand, having established early contact with his entourage.

Still, the 23-year-old is unlikely to come on the cheap. The Tricky Trees are aware of the increasing interest in the highly-rated central defender.

Forest are set to demand between £60m and £70m for the defender, who has been a mainstay in their backline since the 2023/24 campaign.

Murillo's arrival at Chelsea could coincide with more than one exit. Axel Disasi (out on loan) and Benoit Badiashile could be offloaded this summer.

Aside from a centre-back, Liam Rosenior's side could sign a marquee striker and another central midfielder during the next transfer window.

Written by Sri Aswin