Man United lead Murillo chase as Arsenal track Brandt on a free
United make Murillo their top target
Manchester United are putting together an ambitious summer transfer plan, with Forest's Brazilian defender Murillo at the top of their wishlist. The 23-year-old centre-back has been scouted extensively and United are reported to be in talks with Forest over a deal that could cost between £60m and £70m.
The pursuit has become more urgent since Lisandro Martinez picked up a calf injury last month. Martinez has missed United's last three Premier League matches, and while the injury is not considered long-term, it has exposed how thin Carrick's defensive options are. Harry Maguire's contract situation adds further urgency to the centre-back search.
United are not alone in their interest. Liverpool are reportedly weighing up an offer worth around £69m, while Real Madrid and Chelsea have also kept tabs on the defender. Murillo signed a new deal with Forest in January 2025 that runs until 2029, giving the club a strong negotiating position.
Zirkzee pushing for the exit
Elsewhere in United's summer planning, Joshua Zirkzee appears to be heading for the door. The Dutch forward has made ten starts in the Premier League this season from 18 appearances and is reportedly ready to push for a move. United are understood to want two central midfielders, a full-back and a left-sided attacker as part of their overhaul under Carrick.
Brandt available on a free after Dortmund confirm exit
At Arsenal, attention has turned to Julian Brandt. Borussia Dortmund confirmed they will not renew the 29-year-old's contract, which expires at the end of June. The Germany international is keen on a move abroad after seven years at Dortmund and is weighing up options in England, Spain and Italy. Arsenal, Aston Villa, Newcastle and Barcelona have all been linked.
Livramento contract talks stall at Newcastle
The Gunners are also monitoring Newcastle full-back Tino Livramento. The 23-year-old has shown no willingness to extend his contract beyond 2028, and Newcastle are thought to be open to offers north of £60m. Manchester City are considered favourites for his signature, but Arsenal's interest is genuine and growing.
With the summer window still months away, much will depend on how the Premier League title race and European campaigns shake out. But the groundwork is being laid, and clubs with ambitions of bridging the gap to Arsenal are spending big to do it.
