As reported by Caught Offside, Liverpool are serious about signing a new centre-back irrespective of whether Virgil van Dijk stays or not. The Premier League club have marked Nottingham Forest defender Murillo as their top priority.
Murillo is going strong in the English league
Murillo started his career at Corinthians and then moved to Nottingham Forest in the summer of 2023. Since then, he has taken huge strides, positioning himself as a reliable name and one of the best defenders in the Premier League.
Murillo featured in 36 games last season and provided two assists. He averaged 1.6 tackles, 1.2 interceptions, and 5.8 dribbles per game (stats via whoscored).
The Brazilian defender has the ability to adapt to different playing styles. He is physically strong, fast, and has a good aerial presence. He often drifts forward with the ball and is also equipped well to send long accurate passes.
Liverpool want a new centre-back next summer
Liverpool are unsure about Virgil van Dijk‘s future, whose contract expires at the end of the season. However, the club has finally made up their mind about signing a new centre-back irrespective of the outcome of the Dutch’s renewal talks.
The Reds want to bring Murillo to Anfield as they believe he has the potential to serve them in the long term. The centre-back has already made an appealing profile in the Premier League and could be a valuable asset going forward.
The 22-year-old has all the qualities to succeed for a top-tier club like Liverpool. Even though Nottingham Forest wouldn’t like to sell their hot property, Murillo might put pressure on his club to allow his exit as such opportunities don’t come every day.
Sporting Lisbon’s Goncalo Inacio is another target on the list while French defender Castello Lukeba could be a good alternative as well for Arne Slot’s side.
