"I need regular game time" – Chelsea target hints at possibility of rejecting move to Stamford Bridge
Chelsea-linked defender Murillo has claimed that he is keen to stay at Nottingham Forest despite recent speculations linking him with a move away from his club this summer.
Murillo, 22, established himself as a crucial first-team starter at Forest after leaving Corinthians in a £10 million deal past summer. He helped his side avoid relegation from the Premier League last season and has contributed two assists in 36 outings for his club so far.
Speaking to The Telegraph, Murillo opened up on his situation at Forest amid links to English giants like Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur. The Brazilian star said (h/t Metro):
"I need regular game time and really feel that with Forest, I'm in the best place for my career at the moment. Staying here for another season will enable me to mature as a player and eventually become better prepared if the chance ever comes to play at another level one day."
Opening up on his dream of achieving more success, Murillo added:
"Of course, I want to eventually play in the Champions League. When I was growing up, I'd play video games and play with all those teams. Whenever I hear that classic music before the games, it moves me, and it would be a dream to play in that competition. But I've been focusing on my work 100 per cent and I want to do my best. Forest is a massive club in its own right and I feel good here."
Chelsea, who released Thiago Silva at the end of his deal this June, currently have seven centre-backs in their squad. Levi Colwill, Axel Disasi, Wesley Fofana, Benoit Badiashile, and summer signing Tosin Adarabioyo are believed to feature the most under Enzo Maresca.
English club eye move for Chelsea winger
According to Football Insider, Newcastle United are close to signing Noni Madueke from Chelsea in the ongoing summer transfer window. They have agreed personal terms with the 22-year-old Englishman.
Madueke, who joined the Blues from PSV Eindhoven for close to £30 million in the winter of 2023, is reportedly deemed to be Newcastle's top right-wing target. Eddie Howe's side were earlier linked with wingers like Michael Olise, Jarrod Bowen, and Crysencio Summerville.
A left-footed inside forward, Madueke has started 26 of his 46 overall appearances for Chelsea so far. The former Tottenham Hotspur youth star has scored nine goals and laid out three assists for his club so far.