Barcelona are targeting Murillo as a defensive reinforcement, alongside Inácio and Lukeba
Barcelona are actively searching for a new defender, with former Corinthians talent Murillo, Sporting’s Gonçalo Inácio, and RB Leipzig’s Castello Lukeba all on the shortlist. Coach Hansi Flick has grown dissatisfied with his current defensive options, particularly Ronald Araújo.
Barcelona’s Defensive Concerns After Iñigo Martínez Exit
The departure of Iñigo Martínez to Al-Nassr left a gap in Barcelona’s defense that has yet to be filled. According to Fichajes.net, Flick is pressing the board to bring in a new left-footed defender who can balance the back line.
While Inácio is viewed as the most seasoned option and Lukeba has been one of Europe’s fastest-rising defenders, Murillo of Nottingham Forest has emerged as a standout favorite due to his profile and Flick’s personal appreciation.
Murillo Outperforming Araújo in Key Metrics
Murillo’s strong start to the Premier League season has not gone unnoticed. The 21-year-old Brazilian defender, who developed at Corinthians, has posted impressive stats with Forest:
- Average match rating: 7.1
- Ball recoveries per game: 5.5
- Aerial duels won: 100%
- Total duels won: 67%
In comparison, Ronald Araújo has struggled early in La Liga, averaging a 6.5 rating, with fewer recoveries (3.5 per game) and a much lower duel success rate (38%).
Beyond numbers, Murillo also offers what Flick is specifically demanding a left-footed center-back, a quality the staff believe could further complement Pau Cubarsí’s development.
Rising Market Value Could Complicate Deal
Murillo has been linked with Real Madrid, Liverpool, and Arsenal in past windows, but Nottingham Forest managed to retain him. His market value has since soared to €55 million (R$347m), according to Transfermarkt, making him a costly but strategic investment for Barcelona.
