Liverpool have only a few hours left to make any last-minute signings in the current transfer window, though club officials appear to be planning ahead for a major recruitment push in the summer.

Another January has passed without any new arrivals at Anfield, nor any significant progress on contract renewals for Mo Salah, Virgil van Dijk, or Trent Alexander-Arnold. Fortunately, the team’s strong performances on the pitch have helped offset an otherwise quiet month behind the scenes. However, if that crucial trio were to leave later this year, replacing them would be a significant challenge.

A report on Monday morning claims Liverpool already have a potential replacement in mind should Van Dijk depart.

Liverpool ‘seriously interested’ in Murillo

According to strike90mins, Liverpool’s hierarchy are showing strong interest in Nottingham Forest defender Murillo, despite the 22-year-old having recently signed a new long-term contract at the City Ground just two weeks ago.

Despite that extension, the Brazilian centre-back is reportedly open to a move to Anfield, provided both clubs can agree on a transfer fee. However, Forest have made it clear they won’t entertain any offers below £80 million. Arsenal, Real Madrid, and Paris Saint-Germain have also expressed interest in the player.

Why Liverpool’s pursuit of Murillo makes sense

While Liverpool will hope Van Dijk stays at the club, the reality is that he turns 34 in July, and even if he extends his contract, the Reds must start planning for the future.

Murillo, if genuinely interested in joining Liverpool, delivered a standout performance when Nottingham Forest faced the Reds last month, making an astonishing 17 clearances in their 1-1 draw (Sofascore).

Over the past year, the Brazilian has ranked among the top 3% of centre-backs in Europe’s top five leagues for clearances (6.16 per game), successful take-ons (0.63 per game), and among the top 12% for blocks per 90 minutes (1.72) (FBref).

Following Liverpool’s recent visit to the City Ground, Sky Sports journalist Dougie Critchley described Murillo as “a completely unique defender” with “excellent anticipation” and the confidence to carry the ball forward and take on shots from distance.

Given his ability and potential, it’s no surprise that Forest have placed such a high price tag on him or that Liverpool view him as a long-term successor to Van Dijk. Ideally, though, the Reds would secure him while Van Dijk is still at the club, allowing the two to play together rather than one replacing the other.

Van Dijk’s £75 million signing seven years ago revolutionized Liverpool’s defense, turning them from vulnerable to rock solid in no time. If the club is willing to invest heavily again, Murillo could have a similar impact at Anfield.