Barcelona joined by Real Madrid in race for 21-year-old Liverpool target

Even though Barcelona are blessed with plenty of riches in the centre-back department, reports earlier this week suggested that the Catalans have a new central defender in their sights.

Murillo of Nottingham Forest was believed to be on the radars of Barcelona following an impressive breakthrough campaign in the Premier League.

Real Madrid enter race for Murillo

Now, though, Mundo Deportivo reports that Real Madrid are also in the hunt for the signing of Murillo, along with Barcelona, and a host of other top Premier League clubs.

Murillo, 21, is a Brazilian centre-back who moved to Nottingham Forest from Corinthians in the summer of 2023.

The young defender has featured 31 times in all competitions this season for the English club, even setting up two goals.

Murillo’s exploits in the Premier League have led to interest in him from a number of teams, including Barcelona while Real Madrid are also in the race now.

Murillo is a man in demand. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)

Apart from the two La Liga giants, Liverpool are also interested in the young Brazilian, while Manchester United and Chelsea are mentioned as potential suitors.

Passing rumours

While it is true that Barcelona always keep an eye on up-and-coming young talents across the globe, the interest in Murillo is unlikely to be something concrete.

After all, Barcelona have a top defensive line boasting Jules Kounde, Ronald Araujo, Andreas Christensen, Pau Cubarsi, and Inigo Martinez.

Furthermore, Mikayil Faye is also knocking on the doors of the first-team setup and could soon be making a breakthrough.

As such, any talk of a move for Murillo in the summer must be taken with a pinch of salt, more so considering that Barcelona are prioritising only two new signings at the moment.