Manchester United target Forest defender in SIX‑defender overhaul

Man Utd are set to overhaul their defence in 2027, targeting Nottingham Forest centre‑back Murillo as part of a SIX‑defender shortlist, a move aimed at bolstering Michael Carrick’s rearguard after an ageing back four has struggled to protect the Red Devils.

Midfield overhaul sets precedent

The Red Devils spent the summer reshaping their midfield, securing Andrey Santos, Youri Tielemans and Carlos Baleba for a combined £155m. That methodical approach echoed the previous season’s attack revamp, when Benjamin Sesko, Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha arrived at Old Trafford. The success of those wholesale signings has encouraged United to repeat the formula in defence.

Left‑back options on United’s radar

United have identified several left‑back candidates, including Barcelona’s Alejandro Balde, Crystal Palace’s Tyrick Mitchell and Bournemouth’s Adrian Truffett. An immediate, cut‑price alternative is German international David Raum, whose contract with RB Leipzig is nearing its end. Adding a specialist left‑back is seen as priority number one to ease the burden on the ageing Luke Shaw.

Murillo, a 24‑year‑old Brazil international, extended his contract with Nottingham Forest in May to remain until June 2030. Dean Jones United have followed him extensively and explored a summer deal, but the club’s focus shifted elsewhere for a time. Forest, is in a strong position and under no pressure to sell.

Murillo’s price tag and realistic timeline

United are prepared to meet a huge offer, potentially exceeding £70m, to secure Murillo’s signature, though a January move is deemed unlikely. “A huge offer would be required, and January is not a time when United would expect to land him,” Jones said, adding that a summer attempt is more realistic. Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite is also mentioned as a long‑term target, meaning United could MISS out if they delay.

Murillo’s 2025/26 Premier League statistics underline his appeal: 1.4 tackles per game, 1.4 interceptions per game and 5.2 clearances on average, alongside an 83.6% pass‑completion rate and a 6.79 rating per match. These figures suggest a player with both defensive solidity and ball‑playing ability, fitting the profile United seek.

Looking ahead, United may aim to finalise a deal in the summer, when Forest’s position is less secure and the transfer market is more active. The club’s broader defensive rebuild, driven by the SIX‑defender strategy, will hinge on securing a central defender of Murillo’s calibre while also addressing the left‑back vacancy. MAN United’s ambition remains clear: to refresh a back line that has shown signs of fatigue and to restore balance under Michael Carrick’s guidance.