Crystal Palace 'close to agreement' on West Ham's deadline day target
Crystal Palace now look set to win a race to sign a defender who is in-demand.
Crystal Palace now look set to land a deal for a reported West Ham target as they look to add depth to a key area. Oliver Glasner is hoping to land at least a couple of new signings before Monday’s 7pm deadline, with more depth needed ahead of a European campaign.
One area Palace have been looking to add more depth to is the centre-back spot, especially with concerns over Marc Guehi’s future heading towards the deadline. Although, a stay for Guehi could now be on the cards for the Eagles.
It emerged on Monday that West Ham were expressing an interest in a deal to sign Brighton star Igor Julio, who had made 37 league appearances for the Seagulls since arriving in 2023.
But it now looks as though Palace will win the race to sign the 27-year-old centre-back, with a loan deal and an option to buy already agreed. A Sky Sports report read: “Crystal Palace are close to an agreement with Brighton over a loan deal for defender Igor Julio. Sky Sports News has been told the deal includes an option for Palace to buy him at the end of the season.
“Plans are in place for Igor to travel to south London for a medical later today. West Ham held an interest in the player, but Palace now looks his more likely destination.”
Palace will be delighted to add cover at centre-back in what could be a long and busy season given the presence of European football. As for West Ham, the miss will come as a blow as they look to add competition of their own at centre-back, with Nayef Aguerd on his way to Olympique Lyon.
The Hammers were also said to be interested in Southampton star Taylor Hardwood-Bellis, but Southampton are maintaining that the centre-back is not for sale as they look to bounce back to the Premier League this season.