The amount Real Madrid would need to pay to sign Murillo from Nottingham Forest in January.

Nottingham Forest are keen to retain Murillo at the City Ground during the January transfer window, but there may be a price point at which owner Evangelos Marinakis decides to sell.

Murillo has been a standout performer for Forest this season, catching the attention of some of Europe’s top clubs with his impressive displays. It’s remarkable to consider that Marinakis secured the Brazilian center-back for just £15 million less than two years ago, and at only 22 years old, his potential remains immense.

Under Nuno Espirito Santo, Murillo has become a crucial part of what is currently the second-strongest defense in the Premier League. However, when the right offer comes along, clubs often have to weigh the financial upside of a sale. Reports suggest Nottingham Forest have set an £80 million asking price for Murillo, although Real Madrid, who recently scouted him during Forest’s 3-1 loss to Newcastle United, value him closer to £40 million.

Forest, however, are not under pressure to sell. Marinakis has previously demonstrated his willingness to accept significant offers, such as Brennan Johnson’s £50 million move to Tottenham. But Murillo’s future may depend on whether a suitable replacement can be found.

While a January transfer is possible, a summer departure would provide Forest with more time to carefully plan for his replacement, rather than rushing to fill the gap mid-season. For now, Nuno Espirito Santo has emphasized Murillo’s importance to the team, and Forest are likely to resist any sale unless the price is right.