Man United eye former Liverpool target as potential Harry Maguire replacement

According to the Daily Mail, Forest centre-back Murillo is one of the players being considered by United as they look for a new defender for next season. Chelsea also have paid a huge attention to him and are ready to move on even though the Brazilian defender has signed  4½ year contract in January 2025. 

The report also suggested that securing Champions League qualification would greatly boost United’s chances of completing a deal, while Forest are unlikely to feature in Europe next season unless they win the Europa League.

The report adds that the Red Devils are preparing for Maguire’s departure when his contract expires this June, but whether they can secure Murillo’s signature remains another question, as he is unlikely to be available at a cheap price.

Last August, Harry Mcguire shared about his future: “Last year, the clause was in their hands, so there was no option for me there. There was no talking. It was just that they activated it, and it got extended.” 

“This year, obviously I'm up at the end of the year. I'm pretty sure the club have made it aware this summer that I can't leave the club on any terms with other clubs enquiring about my things and my position with my contract”

“We'll have to have a conversation about where we want to go and if they want to extend, or obviously the transfer window will open again in January.”

Alongside their interest in Murillo, TEAMtalk reports that Hayden Hackney is also on United’s radar, though they will face competition from Tottenham Hotspur, Fulham and Everton in the pursuit of the Middlesbrough midfielder. New United head coach Michael Carrick is a known admirer of the Englishman after previously working with him, although Boro are reluctant to sanction his departure before the summer.

Manchester United have appointed Michael Carrick as interim head coach following Amorim’s sacking earlier this month. The new Red Devils boss faces an immediate test with the Manchester derby at Old Trafford on Saturday, followed by another tough clash against league leaders Arsenal. Meanwhile, Harry Maguire will be hoping to return to action for United in the near future.