Potential bidding war as Manchester United and Liverpool target Premier League defender

Signing a centre-back will be one of Manchester United’s first priorities this summer as the club looks to overhaul the squad in a hugely defining transfer window.

Raphael Varane has played his final game for the club and will leave upon the expiry of his contract later this month and the same is likely for Jonny Evans.

There are also question-marks over the futures of Victor Lindelof and Harry Maguire, with both players heading into the final 12 months of their contracts.

Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite has been strongly linked with a move to the Reds but thus far, nothing has materialised.

Now, it is being reported that United are interested in another Premier League star and they are not alone, with Liverpool also keen.

That’s according to Football Insider, who say that Nottingham Forest defender Murillo has caught the attention of both clubs after a stunning season at the City Ground.

As per the report, Forest are likely to sell several players due to their standings with the Premier League Profit and Sustainability regulations, and Murillo is one of their highest-valued assets.

It’s claimed that Murillo is of interest to several clubs and that the Brazilian is valued at £40m, with a bidding war potentially breaking out between Manchester United and Liverpool.

Additionally, European clubs are also said to be keeping tabs on the situation as Forest look to make quick profit on the player they signed for £15m last year.

It remains to be seen whether this is a deal United decide to push ahead with, with the managerial situation remaining unclear.