Fulham have lost the race to sign Fiorentina defender Igor to Premier League rivals Brighton and Hove Albion, according to an Evening Standard report this afternoon.
The Whites looked to be in pole position to sign the Brazilian centre half who helped the Serie A side reach the Europa Conference League final having scouted him extensively over the course of last season and initiated contact with both Fiorentina and the player’s representatives before the summer. The 25 year-old was intrigued by the prospect of moving to London and playing for Marco Silva, but Fulham failed to match Fiorentina’s valuation and had a £7m bid rejected.
The Standard suggests that the Seagulls are close to agreeing personal terms with Igor before finalising the fee for the deal with Fiorentina. Silva has been frustrated in his attempts to make early signings to strengthen his defence with an £8.6m offer for Benfica centre back Morato also being rejected. The Portuguese club are determined to hold onto their highly-rated young prospect leaving Fulham short on defensive reinforcements, having lost Shane Duffy and with Tosin Adarabioyo also expected to leave before the start of the season.
Too slow again. what more can I say
It’s not slow if the bid was rejected !
Brighton come in for the player, have almost agreed terms and a fee with Fiorentina. Fulham meanwhile agree terms, but try to do a cut price deal and are rebuffed. Congratulations Tony Khan on another successful negotiation.
Would have been 4th choice on the rumoured targets. Ibanez and Morato are so much better imho – Morato is a beast and my preference.
Absolute joke yet again trying to get players on the cheap and now as per usual still no one through the door and already back for preseason what is tony khan playing at with our beloved club
As long as Tony Khan has anything to do with transfers he is always trying to get players on the cheap I wish his father would get someone else to do the transfer dealings, still not a single signing, I just hope Marco doesn’t leave because of our lack of ambition.
There is never any harm I initially submitt9 an offer to test the water but when it was declined we should have immediately gone back with an improved offer especially as we had apparently agreed terms with the player. At this rate I will surprised if we sign anyone before the season starts. If that is the case I fear a relegation battle
Makes signing Morato a priority. Maybe he was the preferred left-sided CB. Need to stump up the cash.
9/2 with Victor Chandler was available a couple of days ago John!!