‘Nottingham Forest make Murillo transfer decision as contract saga intensifies’
While Morgan Gibbs-White has stolen the headlines, Nottingham Forest also face a battle to keep hold of Murillo.
The Brazilian centre-back was sensational last season, making more interceptions (36), clearances (242) and blocks (76) than any other Forest player (WhoScored).
Murillo’s form helped Forest sustain a push for Champions League qualification, though they eventually settled for seventh place and a spot in the Uefa Conference League.
Still, it’s the first time the Tricky Trees have played continental football since 1995/96, highlighting the achievement of Murillo and his teammates.
Nottingham Forest dig in on Murillo stance
Naturally, that sort of form has fuelled major rumours that some of Europe’s biggest clubs could make a move for Murillo.
According to the Mail (16 July), the 23-year-old — who has extra value in the market thanks to being left-footed — is attracting the attention of clubs across the continent, including Real Madrid.
For now, Murillo appears happy in Nottingham and Forest have no desire to sell any other key players after Gibbs-White, who looks set to join Tottenham amid a legal battle — especially having already lost Anthony Elanga to Newcastle.
But the defender — who made his Brazil debut against Argentina in March — wishes to one day play in the Champions League.
Forest may have no choice but to eventually sell, but with his contract running until the summer of 2029, the club have a strong negotiating position.
Nottingham Forest push for new Callum Hudson-Odoi deal
While time is on Forest’s side with Murillo, that is not the case when it comes to Callum Hudson-Odoi.
Like Murillo, the three-time England international excelled last season, registering five goals and two assists in Premier League play, alongside sitting first for successful dribbles (37) and third for chances created (44).
But where Murillo has plenty of years left on his deal, Hudson-Odoi has just one to go, with his contract expiring in the summer of 2026.
| Nottingham Forest career stats (all comps) | Callum Hudson-Odoi |
| Appearances | 70 |
| Goals | 13 |
| Assists | 4 |
It’s understood that Hudson-Odoi’s advisors have already held talks with Forest officials in Greece, with the club keen to tie the former Chelsea man down to avoid losing him for free in a year’s time.
Keeping the 24-year-old around only became more important following the departure of fellow winger Elanga, with Nuno Espirito Santo surely keen to avoid his squad being ripped apart after such a positive campaign — and an exciting European adventure to come.