Manchester United have identified Nottingham Forest centre-back Murillo as a priority target ahead of the upcoming summer transfer window, as the club prepares for a significant overhaul of its defensive unit.
The Red Devils are believed to be planning a wide-ranging rebuild at the back in anticipation of next season, with senior figures at Old Trafford already looking toward the future.
Central to these plans is the expectation that Harry Maguire could depart the club, creating both a leadership and personnel gap that United are keen to address with a younger, long-term solution.
In that context, the 21-year-old Brazilian has emerged as one of the most highly regarded options on United’s shortlist.
Murillo has quickly built a strong reputation as one of the standout defenders in the Premier League this campaign.
Despite only committing his future to Nottingham Forest with a four-and-a-half-year contract in January 2025, the talented centre-back is understood to be open to a move should an opportunity arise with a club competing regularly at the highest level.
A switch to a side with European ambitions could be difficult for a player of his profile to ignore.
What makes Murillo particularly attractive to Manchester United is how well his attributes align with the demands of modern football.
He is a left-footed centre-back with notable pace, strength, and athleticism, allowing him to cope with high defensive lines and quick transitions.
His physical condition and mobility enable him to defend large spaces effectively, a quality United have often lacked in recent seasons.
Beyond his defensive solidity, Murillo is also admired for his technical ability on the ball. He is comfortable carrying possession out from the back, beating the press, and progressing play into midfield areas.
His confidence in possession and willingness to contribute to build-up play make him an ideal fit for a team looking to dominate the ball and construct attacks from deep positions.
These traits are increasingly valued by United, who are seeking defenders capable of doing more than simply clearing danger.
Another key factor working in Murillo’s favor is his experience in the Premier League. Having already adapted to the league’s pace, physicality, and intensity, he would not face the same adjustment period as players arriving from abroad.
This familiarity could allow him to make an immediate impact, an important consideration for a club under constant pressure to deliver results.
That said, securing Murillo’s signature will not be straightforward. Manchester United are not alone in their admiration, with Barcelona also tracking the defender’s progress closely.
Additionally, Nottingham Forest are in a strong negotiating position due to the length of Murillo’s contract, giving them little incentive to sell unless their valuation is met.
As a result, any potential deal is expected to come with a substantial price tag, forcing interested clubs to weigh their options carefully.
For Manchester United, the pursuit of Murillo represents both a statement of intent and a calculated risk—one that could shape the club’s defensive foundation for years to come if they decide to move forward.
