Liverpool eye Murillo amid expanded centre-back search
Liverpool have reportedly added Nottingham Forest defender Murillo to their list of potential signings as they broaden their hunt for a new centre-back.
While the Reds remain optimistic about landing Marc Guehi from Crystal Palace next summer, the club has begun preparing backup options due to growing competition from Bayern Munich and Real Madrid.
Guehi deal facing complications
Liverpool were close to signing Guehi during the last transfer window, but Palace chairman Steve Parish refused to sanction the move, prioritising the club’s maiden Europa Conference League campaign. That stance could now hinder Liverpool’s chances, with reports suggesting Real Madrid are ready to step up their pursuit of Guehi as they look to reinforce their defence amid concerns over David Alaba and Antonio Rudiger.
Murillo on Liverpool’s seven-man shortlist
Should Guehi opt for a move abroad, Liverpool have drawn up a shortlist of alternatives, which includes Murillo among several other high-profile names:
- Marc Guehi
- Murillo
- Castello Lukeba
- Dayot Upamecano
- Ronald Araujo
- Jarrad Branthwaite
- Sven Botman
According to football journalist Mark Brus (via The Daily Briefing):
“Murillo is highly regarded at Liverpool. Nottingham Forest may have to sell soon, and although Chelsea are also monitoring him, Liverpool are keeping a close watch.”
Forward-thinking recruitment
Under sporting director Richard Hughes, Liverpool’s recruitment team is not only preparing for a potential Guehi setback but also planning for life after Virgil van Dijk. With Ibrahima Konate’s contract running until 2026 and rumours linking him to Real Madrid, the club could need two new centre-backs in the near future.
Why Murillo fits Liverpool’s style
Murillo’s combination of aerial ability and composure in possession has caught Liverpool’s eye. While his 65.7% aerial duel success rate last season was modest, his performances in 2025 show clear improvement.
The Brazilian centre-back also brings strong attacking attributes for a defender:
- 27 successful dribbles (compared to Konate’s 3)
- 73% dribble success rate
- Confident with the ball, though occasionally guilty of overplaying and losing possession.
Manager Arne Slot is said to admire Murillo’s composure and passing from the back, but would likely look to refine his decision-making under pressure.
In essence, Murillo offers Liverpool an exciting, progressive alternative to Guehi — signalling a forward-thinking approach to strengthening the club’s defensive core for the years ahead.
