Schalke 04 exploring move for Premier League defender

FC Schalke 04 are reportedly weighing up a move for Brighton & Hove Albion defender Igor Julio as the Royal Blues continue their search for defensive reinforcements ahead of the new season.

Igor for Brighton in the Premier League.

Photo: Dan Istitene / Getty Images.

FC Schalke 04 could be set for an ambitious move in the transfer market, with reports suggesting the club has identified Brazilian defender Igor Julio as a potential target.

The 28-year-old currently plays for Brighton & Hove Albion and has built up experience in some of Europe's top leagues. Before moving to England in 2023, Igor enjoyed a successful spell in Italy with Fiorentina, where he featured in both domestic and European competitions.

Igor arrived at Brighton for a reported fee of around €17 million and saw his market value climb to €22 million at its peak. While his value has since dropped to around €10 million, the defender remains an attractive option thanks to his versatility, being capable of playing both at centre-back and left-back.

After a loan spell at West Ham United was cut short midway through the 2025/26 campaign, the Brazilian returned to Brighton in search of regular playing time. A move to Schalke could provide the experienced defender with a fresh start while giving the Gelsenkirchen club a proven option at the back.

Should Schalke manage to pull off the deal, it would represent a notable coup for the promoted side as they continue their efforts to build a squad capable of surviving in the Bundesliga.