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Real Madrid and Barcelona are the latest clubs to join the race for the signature of Nottingham Forest defender Murillo.

The Brazilian ace, currently with his senior national side for the first time, has already been courted by a series of Premier League clubs during his short career. The 22-year-old joined Nottingham Forest from Corinthians in a deal that could reach £12.5million in August 2023.

Manchester City are said to have considered a move at that time, while Chelsea were interested in the defender over the summer. Liverpool are the latest English club to be credited with interest as they look to secure their backline for the future as Virgil van Dijk's contract winds down.

The Reds' consideration of Murillo has been made clear enough that Gary Lineker released a snippet on the Rest of Football, with Alan Shearer seeming to give his approval. "I understand they're after Murillo from [Nottingham] Forest," Lineker said.

Shearer replied: "Those two at Forest [Murillo and Nikola Milenkovic] have done really well this season, that's one of the reasons they're flying high in the Premier League."

Murillo has been ever-present amid Forest's impressive start to the season that sees them sitting fifth, level on points with third placed Chelsea. Fees as a high as £60m have been pitched as a possible transfer value to land the central defender who scored against Newcastle in his last outing.

The star's rise come as both Real Madrid and Barcelona target a new defender. Los Blancos currently suffer from an injury crisis with the likes of Eder Militao and David Alaba ruled out.

With a new defender already on their shortlist, the La Liga champions could move in the winter transfer window. SPORT report Carlo Ancelotti's side could turn to Murillo's combination of promise and experience having previously eyed teenage potential.

Barcelona are said to have tracked Murillo since his time with Corinthians and the player continues to draw their interest. Hansi Flick's side wanted to improve their defence over the past summer but did not have the funds required to do so.

Speaking after joining up with his international side for the first time, Murillo revealed his inspiration. Ex-Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain defender Thiago Silva has proven a useful ally.

"I know the quality of the national team in this defensive phase, with a solid backbone," said Murillo in a press conference. "A defender I’ve always watched and played against last year, who is my idol, is Thiago Silva.

"He gave me the support and encouragement to reach the national team, and I was very happy. It’s a healthy competition, and I am very calm to work towards this opportunity."

Murillo has already suggested the pressure that comes with representing his national side will eclipse that of his club responsibilities. "It was like that at Corinthians and Nottingham," he said.

"But the national team is different. There’s a heavier weight, a bigger competition, with players of extreme quality. I arrived with my feet on the ground to do my job and give my best."