It’s no longer quiet at the back.
Liverpool and Arsenal are poised for a summer showdown over Nottingham Forest’s rising star, Murillo, according to a report by Caught Offside.
At 23, the Brazilian has become the spine of Forest’s resurgence. Signed from Corinthians just last season.
This term, he’s led from the back—scoring once, keeping eight clean sheets in 23 appearances, and anchoring a side surprisingly sitting third with 47 points after 24 games.
Yes, third.
That’s not form. That’s a statement.
And it has Europe’s giants taking note.
Liverpool, facing an uncertain future with Virgil van Dijk in the final stretch of his contract, are eyeing Murillo as a long-term successor.
The Dutchman’s departure would leave a crater in Anfield’s backline, but in Murillo, Liverpool see readiness—composure, control, courage as reported by Caught Offside . But they won’t be alone.
Arsenal are lurking. Mikel Arteta has built a defensive fortress of his own, with Saliba, Gabriel, Timber, and Calafiori forming a formidable wall.
Yet the allure of Murillo’s raw potential might prove too good to ignore.
The challenge?
Forest won’t be bullied. With four and a half years left on Murillo’s deal, as reported, they’ve priced him at £80 million.
Real Madrid and PSG have also joined the queue. And in football, attention is currency.
But Liverpool’s need is greater. Arsenal’s squad is deeper. The fight will be one of ambition, not just finance.
Because Murillo isn’t just a defender. He’s a future cornerstone.