Sky Sports: Brighton ‘Still in the Race’ to Sign 22-year-old Defender | OneFootball

Brighton Maintain Interest in Cuiabano Amid Forest Competition

Brighton & Hove Albion remain firmly in the hunt for promising Botafogo left-back Cuiabano, despite growing competition from Premier League rivals Nottingham Forest, according to a fresh report by Sky Sports News‘ Elliot Cook.

The 22-year-old Brazilian is seen as a versatile option who can operate both at left-back and further up on the flank. His flexibility makes him an attractive prospect for clubs seeking depth on the left side, and Brighton, known for their shrewd scouting in South America, are once again at the forefront.

Brighton’s Longstanding Interest

It has been revealed that Brighton have already made previous offers for Cuiabano, highlighting that their interest is neither new nor reactionary. The club’s data-driven recruitment model has historically targeted under-the-radar talents, often well before their market value peaks.

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Sky Sports reports: “It is understood Brighton have previously made offers for the player.” This shows a level of commitment from the Seagulls, indicating that discussions have been active for some time, even before the recent emergence of Nottingham Forest as a rival suitor.

Forest Eye Triple Botafogo Swoop

While Brighton’s focus appears solely on Cuiabano, Nottingham Forest are making a broader push, eyeing not just the left-sided defender but also his Botafogo teammates Igor Jesus and Jair Cunha.

According to the same Sky Sports article, “Nottingham Forest have also held talks to sign him along with his Botafogo teammates Igor Jesus and Jair Cunha.” The report adds that while Forest are advancing with deals for Jesus and Cunha, “their talks for Cuiabano are less advanced.”

This could provide Brighton with a timely advantage. Forest’s multi-pronged approach may allow Brighton to reassert themselves in negotiations for Cuiabano without the pressure of immediate competition.

Tactical Fit at Brighton

Under new manager Fabian Hürzeler, Brighton are expected to continue their progressive football philosophy, building upon the high-possession, high-press model instilled during Roberto De Zerbi’s tenure. Cuiabano fits that mould well, offering overlapping runs, quick interplay, and solid ball retention.

His ability to play as both a traditional full-back and an advanced wide player could suit Hürzeler’s evolving tactical vision, allowing for seamless formation shifts during matches. At just 22, he also aligns with the club’s model of developing young talent for both on-field impact and future value.

South American Market Continues to Bear Fruit

Brighton’s success in the South American market is no secret. From Alexis Mac Allister to Julio Enciso, the Seagulls have made a habit of identifying elite talent before their global breakthrough. Cuiabano could be the next in a growing list of smart acquisitions, offering both upside and immediate utility.

With the summer window still in its early stages, Brighton appear patient yet purposeful. The race for Cuiabano is still open, but Brighton’s longstanding interest and tactical compatibility could give them a clear edge.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

As a Brighton fan, this report is certainly one to watch with a raised eyebrow and cautious optimism. It’s reassuring to hear we’ve had offers on the table already. That tells me this isn’t a panic move but part of a well-scouted plan. It fits our pattern perfectly: young, versatile, technically sound, and under the radar to the wider football world.

What stands out is that Forest, for all their interest, are not prioritising Cuiabano in the same way they are with Jesus and Cunha. That suggests we still have breathing space to get this deal over the line. And frankly, with our track record in developing South American players, we’d be a far better fit for someone like Cuiabano than Forest, who have lacked identity and stability.

I’m particularly intrigued by what he could offer under Hürzeler. With Estupiñán having struggled for fitness and consistency last season, having a young, hungry alternative could be crucial. The fact he can push up and play further forward gives us more tactical flexibility too, especially if we line up in a 3-4-3 or 4-2-3-1 system.

If this move comes off, it could prove to be another stroke of genius from our recruitment team. We may not have the financial clout of others, but when it comes to spotting talent, few clubs do it better than Brighton.