Barcelona’s defensive plans have stretched far beyond the January transfer window, with the latest news from Sport revealing a name steadily gaining interest within the club.
According to reports, Barcelona Close attention is being paid to left-footed centre-back Murillo, who currently plays for Nottingham Forest.
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However, this is very much a move to be considered next summer rather than an immediate push in January.
Murillo is said to be considered a defender who fits the tactical requirements of head coach Hansi Flick.
His ability to defend aggressively, get the ball forward and operate comfortably on the left side of the centre-back fits well with Flick’s ideas.
The club feel his profile suits a high defensive line and a system that requires centre-backs to be proactive rather than reactive.
Not a new goal
Importantly, Murillo is not a new name to the Barcelona hierarchy as he is already well known to Deco and the team. Blaugrana Technical Secretariat.
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The Brazilian defender has long been considered a “Barca-type” centre-back, especially now that the club are actively looking for a natural left-footed defender.
Barcelona are interested in Murillo. (Photo by Dan Eastin/Getty Images)
While his name has been discussed internally for some time, the current feeling is that January is not the right time to make a move.
Barcelona’s positive comments about Murillo date back to his formative years at Corinthians.
Competition is fierce
Meanwhile, his performances have not gone unnoticed, with several clubs from England’s so-called “big six” keeping a close eye on his progress.
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This level of competition is why any potential deal requires a significant investment.
Murillo is young, has proven at a high level and fits the profile of a centre-back capable of stabilizing the backline for the next decade.
These factors significantly increase his market value and the complexity of any negotiations, especially for English clubs willing to invest huge sums of money.
The Catalan club has begun to act cautiously around the player’s circumstances.
The situation currently complicates any immediate steps, as Andreas Christensen is currently out injured and Barcelona’s short-term defensive needs make a complex move like Murillo’s difficult to execute.
