Crystal Palace to Sign Igor Julio on Loan From Brighton

Crystal Palace have agreed with Brighton to sign defender Igor Julio on loan, with an option to buy. The Brazilian is having his medical at Palace as the deal is close to completion.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Crystal Palace have beaten West Ham to sign Igor Julio from Brighton before the summer transfer window closes. The 27-year-old centre-back will join on loan for the 2025/26 season. Palace have the option to make the deal permanent. Reports confirm that Crystal Palace are leading the race to sign Brighton defender Igor Julio.

Igor joined Brighton from Fiorentina in January 2023 and has played more than 50 matches for the club in all competitions. However, he has not played in the Premier League this season, as confirmed by recent updates. West Ham made a late move to sign him, but Palace acted quickly and reached an agreement with Brighton, which is surprising as the clubs are fierce rivals.

PALACE’S SEASON SO FAR AND IGOR’S IMPACT

Palace beat Aston Villa 3-0 and are 8th in the Premier League table after three matches. They have conceded no goals, but their captain Guehi is likely joining Liverpool indicating defensive problems that Igor’s arrival is expected to solve. Brighton, his parent club, have enjoyed a good start to the season and are one point below them. Igor has not played for Brighton this season, suggesting he is not central to their plans, which makes this move logical for all parties. His experience in both the Premier League and Serie A could provide needed depth and stability to Palace’s defence.

WHAT NEXT FOR PALACE AND IGOR?

Once he clears his medical, Igor is expected to be available for Palace’s next Premier League game against Sunderland at Selhurst Park. Sunderland are just above Palace in with one more point won. With a win, Palace could climb into the top half of the table, making this game important for them. This move offers Igor a fresh opportunity to establish himself in the Premier League and ensure his long-term future as a regular starter. If he performs well, Palace will trigger the option to purchase him, making his stay permanent at the end of the season.