Brazilian defender Igor Julio is set to have a medical this week ahead of his move to Brighton & Hove Albion according to reports from Italy. The highly-rated Fiorentina defender is set to depart Florence and make a move to the Seagulls.
That’s according to Italian outlet Fiorentina News, who claim that the defender is set to make the move to Roberto De Zerbi’s side in the next few hours.
The two clubs reportedly agreed a deal for the Brazilian defender, according to The Athletic, so it does seem to be moving in the right direction for Brighton.
The report states that Fiorentina have begun their search to replace the 25-year-old which suggests the deal is imminent for the defender to make the move to the Premier League outfit, soon.
Firenzeviol.it, another Italian outlet, takes it a step further with their report. They say Julio has already said his goodbyes to his teammates and to the fans over the weekend ahead of the move to the south coast.
Brighton medical scheduled for Igor Julio
A medical is reportedly being prepared for today with the contracts set to be signed in the ‘next few hours’ and then he will become a ‘fully fledged Brighton player’ according to the same report.
The defender was crucial for Fiorentina as they reached the Europa Conference League final against West Ham United.
Julio was perhaps unfortunate to be on the losing side.
A reported fee of £17 million for the defender according to Sky Sports, would represent a significant coup for Brighton as they prepare for Europa League football.
The 25-year-old excels in his passing (88% completion rate) and progressive passes (3.33 per 90) according to FBREF, so he will fit the style of play that Roberto De Zerbi will want from his centre-backs.
Igor will be the next new signing for the Seagulls after the capture of Joao Pedro from Watford and James Milner from Liverpool as well as the signing of goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen from Anderlecht.
Brighton have done extremely well in recent years and will be determined to finish in the top six of the Premier League table next season.
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