Manchester United’s interest in Murillo is real, but any suggestion that Nottingham Forest will entertain a January sale looks wide of the mark. According to TeamTalk , Forest are taking a firm line on the future of the Brazilian centre-back, with the club making it clear that any winter exit would require an “exceptional offer” and even then remains “highly unlikely”.

That wording matters. It speaks to a club under no pressure to cash in, a player tied down on a long-term deal, and a market where elite central defenders are among the most expensive assets available. Murillo, now 24, has grown into one of the Premier League’s standout defenders since joining from Corinthians in 2023. Across three full seasons he has made 117 appearances, becoming a key figure at the City Ground and earning admiration from some of England’s biggest clubs.

Forest’s position appears straightforward. Murillo signed a new contract in May through to 2030, which has “strengthened Forest’s hand and removed any immediate need to sell”. Internally, he is seen as vital, and “the message from the City Ground is that a mid-season deal is categorically not on their radar”.

That is a significant barrier for Manchester United. Clubs can admire players, track them extensively and prepare shortlists, but if the selling side have no intention of engaging, movement becomes difficult. TeamTalk report that Murillo is among the defensive names being assessed by INEOS as United continue to examine how to refresh a back line that, in places, has begun to look overly familiar.

The description of United’s defensive issues is particularly telling, with claims the defence has become “all too familiar and a little bit stale”. There is also the suggestion that some established figures may be under greater scrutiny if recruitment accelerates in this position.

United are said to be “the most eager to add defensive options in January”, and Murillo’s profile is easy to understand. He offers mobility, quality on the ball from the left side, physical strength and composure in duels. In a market where left-footed central defenders remain prized, his value only rises further.

There is also context around the current squad. The report highlights a back four of Diogo Dalot, Harry Maguire, Lisandro Martinez and Luke Shaw as names that have continued to feature prominently, prompting fresh questions over whether too many players have become settled in their roles. Martinez, specifically, is mentioned as someone who “would be one of the most vulnerable” were United to act decisively for Murillo.

Still, admiration does not equal availability. Forest know exactly what they have, and they also know others are watching. Liverpool and Chelsea are both credited with long-standing interest. Liverpool’s angle is framed around central defensive succession planning, while Chelsea’s admiration has existed for some time as they continue to shape their squad.