‘Enquiry lodged’ – Wolves in contact to sign £17m Brighton gem – but Crystal Palace lurking

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ByMusa
July 1, 2025

Wolves Eye Brighton Defender Igor Julio Amid Premier League Competition

Wolverhampton Wanderers are reportedly keen on signing Brighton & Hove Albion centre-back Igor Julio this summer, though they face competition from two other Premier League clubs.

Manager Vitor Pereira is looking to strengthen Wolves’ defensive options as he aims to stick with his preferred back-three formation. Last season, Pereira often had to deploy Matt Doherty out of position due to a lack of depth, despite having alternatives like Nasser Djiga and Santiago Bueno available. Now, the club is seeking a reliable, experienced defender to provide better balance and depth.

According to Diario Vasco, Wolves have identified Brighton’s Igor as a target and have already made an initial enquiry. However, they are not alone in their pursuit—Leeds United, Crystal Palace, Real Madrid, and Real Sociedad are also said to be interested.

Igor Seeks Brighton Exit

Wolves may have an advantage in negotiations, as the Brazilian has reportedly requested a move away from Brighton. Since joining from Fiorentina for £17 million in 2022, Igor has struggled for consistent playing time, amassing just 2,596 Premier League minutes over two seasons due to injuries and competition from Lewis Dunk, Jan Paul van Hecke, and Adam Webster.

Despite flashes of strong form, he has never fully cemented his place in Brighton’s lineup. With two years left on his contract (plus a club option for an extra year), the Seagulls are unlikely to sell for less than what they paid. At 27, Igor is in his prime, making him a potentially smart investment.

How Igor Would Fit at Wolves

A left-footed, physically imposing defender comfortable in possession, Igor could slot in seamlessly on the left side of Wolves’ back three. While Toti Gomes has impressed under Pereira, his inconsistency means another option in that role would be valuable.

Igor’s experience—110 appearances for Fiorentina, plus spells at SPAL, Austria Vienna, FC Liefering, and RB Salzburg—would add steel and composure to Wolves’ defence. His arrival could provide strong competition for Toti while solidifying Pereira’s defensive setup.