Brighton set to sign Fiorentina defender Igor ahead of Fulham | OneFootball

Brighton & Hove Albion are closing in on the signing of Fiorentina defender Igor, according to the Evening Standard.

Fulham also showed interest in the Brazilian international as they searched the market for a replacement for Tosin Adarabioyo.

The defender has been linked with Inter Milan and Fulham identified Igor as an option to replace him.

However, Brighton are now firmly ahead in the race for Igor and could close a deal soon.

He rose to prominence last season after helping Fiorentina reach the finals of the Coppa Italia and Europa Conference League.

He helped La Viola keep four clean sheets in 27 Serie A appearances while winning 57% of his duels.

Igor showed his stellar ability on the ball, adeptly distributing short and long passes.

His ability on the ball will impress Brighton manager Roberto De Zerbi who likes defenders to be sound in that department.

It is unclear how much Brighton will pay for Igor. Fiorentina value him at around £20 million and rejected a £7m bid from Fulham for the centre-back.

It remains to be seen whether Brighton’s advancement in this deal will see them drop their pursuit of Chelsea’s Levi Colwill.

They want Colwill, who spent last season on loan at the Amex Stadium, permanently. However, Chelsea see him as part of their future and will not sell at any price.

Brighton may decide to move on from Colwill with a deal for Igor on the cards.

As for Fulham, they have already made a bid for Benfica defender Morato. The Portuguese club rejected the offer, but Fulham could return after missing out on Igor.