Palmeiras sound out Brighton defender Igor Julio over potential january exit

Brighton & Hove Albion are assessing fresh transfer interest from Brazil after Igor Julio emerged as a potential target for Palmeiras ahead of the 2026 season.

According to reports from Brazil, Palmeiras have identified Igor Julio as a possible solution as they plan to reinforce their defence for the new campaign. The interest remains at an early and exploratory stage, but contact has already been made with the player’s representatives to assess the feasibility of a deal.

Palmeiras are actively searching for a centre-back and see Igor Julio as an attractive, homegrown option who fits their recruitment profile. While no formal approach has been made to Brighton, the Brazilian club have taken initial steps by sounding out the defender’s camp, seeking clarity on contract details and the conditions required for a potential move.

At this stage, the process is described as fact-finding rather than negotiation. With the Brazilian league calendar running from January to December, Palmeiras’ interest relates to immediate reinforcements for the 2026 season, which begins later this month.

Igor Julio remains contracted to Brighton and is currently on loan at West Ham United until June 2026. However, the temporary move has not unfolded as hoped, with the defender struggling for consistent minutes in east London.

The lack of regular football has left the player open to reassessing his future, a factor that has encouraged Palmeiras to explore whether a return to Brazil could be possible in the coming weeks.

Igor Julio has already featured for both Brighton and West Ham this season, appearing in an EFL Cup tie against Oxford United before his loan move. That limits his eligibility for transfers within several European leagues, but Brazil’s differing calendar means a move would be classified as participation in a new season.

From Brighton’s perspective, a clean break is preferred. Rather than sanctioning another loan, the club are understood to be open to a permanent sale if suitable terms can be agreed.

Reports from Brazil suggest Brighton would expect a fee in the region of £6m (€7m) to consider a deal. No direct club-to-club talks have taken place so far, but the valuation provides an early indication of the conditions required to progress discussions.

Brighton’s existing relationship with Palmeiras is also seen as a potential facilitating factor, although both sides remain cautious at this early stage.

For now, the situation remains one to monitor rather than a deal close to completion. Palmeiras will continue assessing their options as the Brazilian season approaches, while Brighton weigh up whether to actively market the defender or wait for firmer interest. Any progress is likely to depend on Palmeiras’ willingness to meet Brighton’s valuation and the player’s desire for a return to regular football.

Should Brighton cash in on Igor Julio this month — or hold out for interest closer to the summer window?