Joel Matip and Virgil Van Dijk are Liverpool’s 32-year-old centre-back duo. The former’s contract expires at the end of the season and he is likely to leave on a free transfer.The latter has returned to playing like he was in his prime, but his age means that his time at the forefront is dwindling.
Liverpool, hoping to secure his replacement, will be looking to acquire a new centre-back in this summer’s transfer window. There are rumours of interest in all kinds of centre-backs, including Sporting defender Goncalo Inácio and Fulham defender Tosin Adarabioyo.
21-year-old defender Murillo, who joined Nottingham Forest from Corinthians last summer and is gaining a reputation as a passer as well as a defender, has also been reported as one of the targets. He has started every Premier League game except those played prior to his transfer.
According to Mundo Deportivo, Real Madrid could also be in the race for the player. In addition to Liverpool, Chelsea, Barcelona and Manchester United are also keen.
He has quickly adapted to English football for the first time, is not easily beaten in physical competition due to his size and has a good amount of speed. His left-footed passes up front are attractive, and although he occasionally misses, he is part of the build-up to an attack.
Liverpool had a history of targeting left-backs in the transfer market last summer, and while there are many rumoured names of right-backs, a left-footed defender is seen as a high priority.
So will the Brazilian centre-back leave Nottingham Forest after just one year and step up to a stronger club…?