Manchester United may have to spend big if they want to revive their interest in Nottingham Forest defender Murillo, with the Brazilian still viewed as one of the club’s most important players.
The 24-year-old has been on United’s radar for some time and remains a tempting option as they assess how to strengthen their defence.
The problem is that Forest are in no mood to make life easy for interested clubs, especially in the middle of the season.
Forest will only consider a huge bid for Murillo
According to Football Insider, Man United have been told it would take a “huge” offer to convince Nottingham Forest to part with Murillo.
The report says United are considering reigniting their interest, but a January transfer is regarded as highly unlikely. Forest are reluctant to sell and believe they are in a strong position to demand a premium fee.
That stance is hardly surprising. Murillo has established himself as one of the standout defenders at the City Ground, while Forest have previously made it clear they would only listen to an exceptional proposal.
Football Insider has previously reported that owner Evangelos Marinakis would only consider a “silly offer” for the centre-back, underlining just how difficult negotiations could be.
Murillo fits Man United needs but the price could change the plan
From United’s point of view, the interest makes sense.
Murillo is left-footed, comfortable carrying the ball out from defence and already has plenty of Premier League experience. Those qualities make him an obvious fit for a side looking to refresh its back line over the next couple of windows.
But there is a point where the numbers stop making sense.
United have also been linked with other centre-backs, including RB Leipzig’s Castello Lukeba, while The Sun recently reported that the club may need to look beyond the Premier League because so many domestic options have become expensive or difficult to prise away.
Forest’s position is strengthened further by Murillo’s long-term contract, which reportedly runs until 2030. That removes any urgency to sell and gives them the freedom to name their price.
A January deal therefore looks unlikely unless United are prepared to go well above market expectations. The summer may be the more realistic window, but even then, Murillo will not come cheaply.
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