EPL Index
·18 July 2023
In partnership with
Yahoo sportsEPL Index
·18 July 2023
There’s a stirring down by the English Channel. A gust of ambition sweeps across the Amex Stadium. Yes, Brighton, it seems, are set to pluck the defender Igor from Fiorentina’s grasp, pulling the rug out from under Fulham in the process.
At 25, Igor is edging towards a personal agreement with the Seagulls before the two clubs convene for direct talks over his fee. There’s an unmistakeable spark in the air, a palpable sense of anticipation that Brighton may soon welcome a new defender to its ranks.
Last week, Fulham, their hopes buoyed, attempted to secure the Brazilian centre-back with a £7 million bid. This move, however, was quickly batted away.
In a twist of events, Brighton have flown into the fray for the coveted defender, with the allure of Fiorentina’s star valued at roughly £20 million. As of now, Brighton’s allure appears irresistible, not least because of its Europa League status.
Fulham, however, aren’t standing idle. Their radar now locks onto a new target: Benfica’s Morato. Last week saw Fulham make an inaugural £8.6 million bid for the player, only to be dismissed by the Portuguese giants who, it seems, will not part with Morato unless they see a substantially elevated offer.
Marco Silva, it’s clear, is on a mission this summer. The manager is keen to sign a new defender, particularly as Tosin Adarabioyo seems poised to exit, courted by the likes of Tottenham, Monaco, and Rennes.
Brighton’s play for Igor represents an intriguing chapter in this off-season’s narrative. Amidst the whispers and murmurs of negotiations, the larger footballing world watches on, keen to see how this southern duel plays out. It’s a story of unexpected twists and strategic play, as Brighton, Fulham, and a certain Brazilian defender find themselves tangled in a web of ambition and talent.
These insights are reported by the Evening Standard, offering an enthralling glimpse into the machinations of football’s off-pitch drama. But for now, the suspense continues to build, leaving fans and clubs alike waiting for the next move in this captivating chess match.