Real Madrid join race to sign Premier League star wanted by Arsenal and Liverpool: Reports

Real Madrid have joined the race to sign Nottingham Forest's Murillo in the 2025 transfer window, according to TBR Football (via The Hard Tackle). Murillo is one of the leading targets for Arsenal and Liverpool in their next transfer window, and the arrival of the Spaniards is not going to make things easy for the English clubs.

There have also been reports which state that Madrid sent scouts to watch Murillo score the lone goal for Nottingham Forest in their 1-3 defeat to Newcastle United at home on Sunday, November 10. Arsenal and Liverpool, who have been keeping close tabs on the centre-back, will be disheartened by the involvement of Los Blancos.

Murillo, who came through the ranks at Corinthians, joined Forest in the summer transfer window of 2023 and has gradually risen through the ranks to become one of their leading players. The 22-year-old has been appreciated for his man-marking abilities as well as zonal positioning.

The Brazilian was linked with Arsenal for quite some time, who, despite having a good defensive base, want to strengthen their ranks. It is no secret that manager Mikel Arteta enjoys having a strong defensive unit and the addition of Murillo will give a major boost to his squad with the likes of Gabriel, William Saliba, and Ben White.

Liverpool too are keen on scouting Murillo as they mull over the uncertainty of Virgil van Dijk's contract. The Dutchman's current contract comes to an end in the summer of 2025, and talks are underway between his representatives and the club regarding a new deal.

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Real Madrid will give tough competition to Arsenal and Liverpool for Murillo

Real Madrid are not known to back down once they enter into a transfer war, and they will most likely take Murillo away from either Arsenal or Liverpool if push comes to shove. Madrid lack depth at the back, and with centre-back Eder Militao ruled out of the season, things could get even trickier for them.

Madrid are ranked in the second position of the LaLiga table at the moment with 27 points to their name, trailing leaders Barcelona by six points.

Liverpool, meanwhile, are ranked right at the top of the EPL table with 28 points while Arsenal are fourth with 19 points inside their bag.