Chelsea and Tottenham target Murillo says he ‘dreams of playing in the Champions League’ but plans to stay at Nottingham Forest this season.
Murillo made a significant impression in his first season at the City Ground, helping his club avoid relegation to the Premier League with some standout displays at centre-back.
Forest value the 22-year-old, who was purchased from Corinthians for £10 million, at over £60 million, with Chelsea, Tottenham Hotspur, and Atletico Madrid among those interested in his services.
In June, it was reported that the Blues were willing to offer two players to Nuno Espirito Santo’s side in exchange for signing the Brazilian, with the player himself confirming the offer.
Murillo later fueled the flames by indicating an interest in leaving Forest to join Manchester City, Arsenal, or Liverpool.
However, in a new interview with the Telegraph, the defender stated that, while he has dreams to play in the major championships, he believes it is preferable to remain at the City Ground for at least one more season.
‘I need regular game time and believe that with Forest, I am in the optimum location for my career,’ he stated.
‘Staying here for another season will allow me to improve as a player and be better equipped if the opportunity to play at a higher level arises in the future.
‘Of course, my ultimate goal is to play in the Champions League. When I was younger, I used to play video games and join various teams. When I hear that iconic music before the games, it moves me, and it would be a dream to compete in that tournament.
But I’ve been completely focused on my work here, and all I want is to do my best. Forest is a massive club in its own right, and I feel comfortable here.
Neither Chelsea nor Tottenham are competing in the Champions League this season, but they will undoubtedly be keeping an eye on Murillo.
Despite being fined points for breaking financial regulations last season, Forest are under no obligation to sell Murillo, who has a contract until 2028.
Chelsea’s interest in the centre-back may have waned after they obtained the free transfer of Tosin Adarabioyo from Fulham, with Enzo Maresca now focused on signing a new goalkeeper, having bid for Villarreal’s Filip Jorgensen.