Chelsea Eyeing Defender Murillo as Forest Look to Balance Books with Player Sales

Chelsea are intensifying their pursuit of Forest‘s young defender Murillo as new head coach Enzo Maresca eyes defensive reinforcements. Murillo, a promising 21-year-old signed from Corinthians last season, has impressed Chelsea scouts and could command a hefty fee of around £70 million.

In a bid to sweeten the deal, Chelsea are considering offering versatile defender Trevoh Chalobah to Forest. Chalobah, capable of playing multiple defensive positions, is reportedly on the transfer list at Chelsea and could aid in balancing the books.

Forest, keen on complying with financial regulations, are in talks to offload defender Moussa Niakhate to Lyon for approximately £20 million. The sale of Niakhate, alongside other player exits, aims to prevent Forest from breaching the Premier League‘s Profitability and Sustainability Rules.

Chelsea’s interest in young talent aligns with their acquisition strategy under Maresca’s leadership. With an array of quality centre-backs at their disposal, Chelsea view Murillo as a long-term investment fitting their squad profile.

Forest, amidst player sales, are also finalizing the departure of midfielder Orel Mangala to Lyon for a fee exceeding £20 million. These sales, along with potential further outgoings, aim to ensure financial stability for the upcoming season.