Crystal Palace Lead Race to Sign Igor Julio from Brighton

Crystal Palace are leading the race to sign Brighton defender Igor Julio. They are in talks for a season-long loan. The Brazilian is interested in joining Palace because of the chance to play in Europe.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Igor Julio is a 27-year-old centre-back. He is the subject of transfer discussions as the summer window closes. West Ham showed interest and made late bids. But Crystal Palace have reached an agreement with Brighton for a loan. Personal terms are not expected to be a problem. The player is viewing the move positively. Igor joined Brighton from Fiorentina in 2023 for a reported £15 million. This season, he has struggled for regular playing time and has not appeared in the Premier League.

PALACE’S DEFENSIVE UPGRADE AND TEAM FORM

Crystal Palace aim to strengthen their squad for a demanding season with European commitments. After a mixed start to the 2025/26 campaign, Palace seek defensive stability. The team sits 8th in the league table after three games, and have won the Community Shield. With European group stage fixtures approaching, manager Oliver Glasner wants to reinforce a defence that has lost their captain Guehi to Liverpool. Crystal Palace have struggled early on, and have one win and two draws so far this season, indicating the need for improvement and consistency.

WHAT NEXT FOR IGOR AND THE CLUBS INVOLVED?

Negotiations continue, with both clubs hoping to finalise the deal before the window closes. If completed, Igor Julio would bring more than 50 Premier League games of experience to Selhurst Park and could debut soon. West Ham, after missing out, may turn to other targets for defensive reinforcements. Crystal Palace’s next match is against Sunderland, who are sitting 5th in the table, one point above Palace. Both teams aim to build momentum for the league and European fixtures.