Chelsea remain interested in Premier League defender

Chelsea begin their UEFA Conference League campaign on Thursday when they host Belgian side Genk. 

The Blues are considered favourites to lift the trophy next year, and head coach Enzo Maresca will want to see his side start their campaign with victory on Thursday.

Maresca’s side have been in fine form of late, most recently when beating Brighton and Hove Albion 4-2 on Saturday courtesy of four goals from talisman Cole Palmer.

The England international won’t be involved on Thursday evening, as he wasn’t included in Chelsea’s squad for the group phase of the competition.

Chelsea were once again extremely busy in the transfer market over the summer window, but it appears that they remain interested in a Premier League defender.

As reported by Simon Phillips Talks Chelsea, the Blues remain interested in Nottingham Forest central defender Murillo.

The report claims that Chelsea had previously shown interest in the Brazilian centre-back, before being put off the idea when finding out Forest’s asking price for the player.

Chelsea are still on the hunt for a new central defender and the report suggests that they are therefore still keeping tabs on Murillo, 22.

Having joined Forest from Brazilian top flight side Corinthians last summer, Murillo enjoyed a fine debut season in England.

The defender played 36 times for Forest across all competitions last term, and he has played every minute of their impressive Premier League campaign so far.

He is contracted to the City Ground side until the end of the 2027/27 season, and Forest will be understandably reluctant to let the player leave prior to then.

It is claimed that Chelsea have currently shelved the idea of moving for Murillo, but they may well return for him in a future transfer window.