Chelsea keen on signing 22-year-old Premier League breakout star: Reports

West Ham United FC v Chelsea FC - Premier League - Source: Getty
Murillo could be headed to Chelsea.

Chelsea are considering the possibility of signing Nottingham Forest defender Murillo. According to journalist Simon Phillips, the Blues are looking to reignite their interest in the 22-year-old after previously trying to sign him.

Forest could find it difficult to keep hold of the centre-back who has been impressive since arriving in the Premier League. He joined in the summer of 2023 from Brazilian side Corinthians for a reported fee of €15 million.

His strong outings earned him the 2023-24 Forest Player of the Year award. In all, the youngster made 36 appearances across all competitions for the side last season, collecting two assists.

HITC previously claimed that the centre-back had caught the eye of scouts from Liverpool and Real Madrid as well.

Chelsea currently boast a long list of options in central defense but Murillo could prove to be a smart addition. Levi Colwill and Wesley Fofana have started most matches in the Premier League while Axel Disasi and Benoit Badiashile have looked unconvincing at times. Trevoh Chalobah is currently on loan at Crystal Palace after having been linked heavily with a permanent move away from Stamford Bridge, with his future at the club still unclear.

Fabrizio Romano opens up on Chelsea's good start to the season

Transfer guru Fabrizio Romano suggested that Chelsea could be title contenders in the Premier League. The Italian stated that he was impressed by new manager Enzo Maresca's work.

He said (via CaughtOffside):

“The team is very happy with how he [Enzo Maresca] is handling things and always the club is feeling the same so I think it’s a very positive situation around Chelsea probably the best moment after the new owners came in and so now you can see how it feels completely different. They’re already very happy with what they have and I think they will be contenders, yes.
“I think they are, absolutely. I think they are. They will be there to compete. We know in England, in the Premier League, it’s never easy. So it’s never guaranteed, even when you have a fantastic team. But I think Chelsea can be there. Also because the chemistry with the manager has been excellent.”

After enduring two difficult campaigns, the Blues have begun the 2024-25 season well. Currently, they find themselves in fourth in the Premier League after six games.

Their only loss came on opening day weekend to Manchester City. Outside that game, they have proven to be a free-flowing, entertaining side, leading the league with 15 goals scored.

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Edited by Sudeshna Banerjee