West Ham Line Up Loan Deal for Brighton Defender Igor Julio

West Ham United are pushing to strengthen their defence before the transfer window closes, with Brighton centre-back Igor Julio emerging as a target, according to The Independent.

The 27-year-old Brazilian joined Brighton from Fiorentina but has struggled to cement his place in the starting XI. Fitness setbacks have limited his game time, with Igor making 17 Premier League starts in his debut season but only 10 last term. This campaign, he is yet to feature in the league, though he did help Brighton keep a clean sheet in a 6-0 EFL Cup win over Oxford United last week.

A Move That Almost Happened Elsewhere

Igor was previously close to joining Crystal Palace as a potential replacement for Marc Guehi, who was linked with a big-money move to Liverpool. However, that transfer collapsed, leaving the door open for West Ham to step in.

Reports suggest the Hammers are negotiating a season-long loan deal, with manager Graham Potter eager to reinforce his defensive options following Nayef Aguerd’s departure.

West Ham’s Defensive Targets

Igor isn’t the only name on West Ham’s shortlist. Chelsea’s Axel Disasi and Toulouse defender Charlie Cresswell are also being considered as Potter looks to reshape his backline. Transfermarkt values Igor at around £17m, and while his technical ability makes him an attractive option, his injury history remains a concern.

Recent Form and What’s Next

The Hammers bounced back from a poor start to the season with a convincing 3-0 win over Nottingham Forest, switching from a back three to a more solid back four setup. That system may suit Igor if he arrives before the deadline.

After this weekend’s fixtures, the Premier League pauses for the international break, with West Ham returning to action in a London derby against Tottenham Hotspur on 13 September.