Liverpool transfer news has put Murillo back on the radar, with Nottingham Forest ready to reject any January approach for their 24-year-old centre-back. Forest have little reason to sell. Murillo recently signed a contract running until June 2030, giving the club a strong hand in negotiations, while their financial position means they don’t need a mid-season sale.
Liverpool transfer news puts Murillo firmly in focus
Pete O’Rourke reports that nothing will happen in January, with Forest ruling out discussions during the window. Any serious movement looks more likely next summer, when several clubs could compete for a defender Forest value at more than €80m.
Murillo’s current market value stands at €50m, but that figure doesn’t reflect Forest’s asking price. His 2026/27 campaign has already produced five Premier League appearances, one assist and 35 clearances.
His recovery pace adds another weapon. Murillo can reach 33.7 km/h, while his passing under pressure suits teams that defend high and want centre-backs to start attacks.
For Iraola, that profile has obvious appeal. Iraola wants defenders who can step forward, press aggressively and move the ball quickly after regaining possession. Murillo can perform those jobs without looking uncomfortable in open spaces.
Can Liverpool wait until summer 2027 for Murillo?
Waiting creates a problem for Liverpool. Virgil van Dijk’s contract expires at the end of the season, so the club may need to plan for a major defensive change before Murillo becomes available.
Chelsea and Manchester United could enter the race, pushing the eventual fee well beyond €80m if Forest receive several serious offers. Liverpool can’t control that market, either. Still, January offers no realistic route. Forest have already made their position clear, and Murillo’s long contract gives them little reason to compromise.
Liverpool should therefore work on the deal before summer rather than wait for the window to open. Early contact, personal terms and a clear sporting plan could matter once the bidding starts.
Van Dijk’s situation makes another centre-back option sensible too. Liverpool can’t build their entire defensive succession plan around one player who won’t move until June. If Murillo becomes unavailable, an alternative must already exist.
The ideal outcome would see Liverpool preserve their interest without forcing a January deal that Forest simply won’t entertain. That leaves the club with a difficult summer calculation, especially if €80m becomes the starting point rather than the ceiling.
