PL rivals’ financial troubles hand Liverpool huge boost in centre-back pursuit

Liverpool have been handed a huge advantage in their pursuit of Nottingham Forest star Murillo

According to a report from Football Insider, Liverpool have been handed a big boost in their pursuit of Nottingham Forest defender Murillo.

Nottingham Forest suffered a four-point deduction for breaching Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR) last season almost compromising their top-flight status. The Midlands outfit are going through financial problems and remain at risk of breaching PSR regulations for the second successive campaign.

Football Insider claims the club could face points deductions again if they do not raise £65million over the 2023/24 season, and the profit from player sales must happen before the end of June. The Tricky Trees are under immense pressure to record between £20 million and £25 million trading profit before Sunday’s deadline, which could force them into selling one of their prized assets at a modest price.

While Nottingham Forest will look to fulfil their financial objectives with several sales of fringe players in the next couple of days, there is speculation surrounding the future of Murillo at the City Ground.

Murillo, 21, a key asset to the club, is valued at £40 million, although given their poor financial situation, Nottingham Forest could potentially sell him for less than that price. The Brazilian defender has interest from several from several clubs, including Liverpool.

The report adds Liverpool are among many clubs across Europe keeping tabs on the 21-year-old centre-back’s situation at Forest. Murillo enjoyed a strong individual debut campaign in England even though Forest struggled in the Premier League and just managed to avoid the drop. The Brazilian’s efforts didn’t go in vain as not only Forest clinched top-flight safety but also the supporters voted him as their Player of the Season for 2023/24.

The ex-Corinthians man seamlessly adapted to the demands of English football, catching the eye with his passing ability, vision, reading of the game, crunching tackles and leadership. Forest’s dire financial position and need to make quick sales should not go unnoticed, and Liverpool must take full advantage of their situation by making a move for Murillo.

Arne Slot is already hunting for a left-footed centre-back to partner Virgil van Dijk next season. As Bologna star Riccardo Calafiori—one of our summer targets—remains close to joining Juventus, Liverpool must shift their focus towards getting Murillo from Forest. A left-footed centre-back, the 21-year-old fits the profile perfectly and would represent a sound long-term investment.

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All in all, Liverpool must do their best to get Murillo’s signature at a decent fee, which would also go some way in helping Forest’s financial troubles.