'Looks like SpongeBob but a real talent!' – Nottingham Forest star tipped for big money transfer amid links with Real Madrid and Barcelona

Stuart Pearce says Murillo "looks like SpongeBob" but is a "real talent" and could attract interest from the likes of Real Madrid and Barcelona.

• Brazilian defender starring at the City Ground
• Tied to a long-term contract in England
• Already caught the eye of heavyweight outfits

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  WHAT HAPPENED?

  For now, the mercurial Brazilian defender is tied to a long-term contract at Nottingham Forest. He has been at the City Ground since the summer of 2023, taking in 75 appearances for the Reds across two seasons.

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  THE BIGGER PICTURE

  Murillo’s performances have caught the eye, with his physical qualities being complemented by ball-playing flair that is expected of South American performers that line up in any position. The 23-year-old is a lot of fun to watch.

• DID YOU KNOW?

  With there still plenty of potential to be unlocked in his game, it has been suggested that Murillo could go on to become the first £100 million ($132m) defender in world football – with his skill set considered to be a good fit for Clasico rivals in La Liga.

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  WHAT PEARCE SAID

  Forest legend Pearce – speaking in association with Freebets.com, home of best casino sites – told GOAL when asked if Murillo is destined to reach the very top: "I really like him. He’s one of these that churns the games out, plays all the games, reads the game really well.

  "He’s not your stamp of a central defender. He’s got a physique that makes him look like SpongeBob, but I think he’s a real talent. Comfortable on the ball, can find a pass. He does the unusual at times as well but when you consider his age, he is a real talent.

  "He’s one that Forest, with the addition of [Nikola] Milenkovic to partner him and the way they play, they fit the counter-attack method. Murillo probably could go and play at another club that play more expansive, and he’ll deal with that. I think it suits Milenkovic to play at Forest, because they cover him a little bit, he’s got to defend the 18-yard box, and that suits him brilliantly. Murillo is a wonderful talent and really important they keep hold of him."