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Chelsea move ahead of Tottenham in chase for Nottingham Forest star Murillo

Originally posted on HITC | By Will Butcher | Last updated Feb 15, 2026 3:46 PM ET

Missing out on Jeremy Jacquet to Liverpool means Chelsea are now expected to make Nottingham Forest’s Murillo a priority target for a new centre-back signing this summer.

Liam Rosenior has plenty of options across his squad, with players who not only have plenty of ability but also huge potential. Still, there are certain positions where he will still be working out who his best starters are.

Chelsea’s options at centre-back include Benoit Badiashile, Wesley Fofana, Trevoh Chalobah and Tosin Adarabioyo. Mamadou Sarr was recalled from Strasbourg, Jorrel Hato can play centrally as well, while Levi Colwill is still sidelined.

Injuries to Tosin and Colwill combined with Sarr’s return mean it was never going to be easy for any manager to settle on a first-choice pairing so early in the season. But that clarity will need to come quickly if Chelsea are going to compete for trophies.

Murillo deal progress being made by Chelsea

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Rosenior has not been at the club long, but one possible reason he has not settled on a centre-back pairing is that none of his options stand out clearly above the rest.

In that context, according to TeamTalk, Chelsea are keen on Nottingham Forest defender Murillo. The report suggests Forest feel Murillo has reached his peak at the club and that a summer move away is likely.

The Blues are said to be making significant progress in their pursuit of Murillo. Liverpool remain in contention, while Tottenham and Man United are further back. The situation remains fluid, though, as Forest hold out for a sizable transfer fee.

Chelsea closing in on Nottingham Forest’s Murillo

Nottingham Forest have also gone public with their £50m valuation of Murillo, a player they know is in high demand. They will be hoping that interest from multiple clubs can help them secure the best possible price.

Chelsea, for their part, are no strangers to hefty transfer fees. Their pursuit of Jeremy Jacquet involved even larger sums, and they have already invested heavily in defenders like Wesley Fofana, who cost over £70m.

Whether Murillo chooses Chelsea may depend on more than just the financials. With strong competition for places at Stamford Bridge, Champions League qualification could play a significant role in swaying his decision.

This article first appeared on HITC and was syndicated with permission.

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