Brighton’s Igor Julio has expressed his desire to join Liverpool, while also giving Joao Pedro some advice with the forward being linked with a summer exit.
The Brazilian defender only joined the Seagulls in 2023 from Italian outfit Fiorentina and has made 49 appearances over two seasons. Despite limited game time, the 27-year-old shared his dreams of playing for Liverpool as he discussed the future of Pedro.
“Joao Pedro had already told Brighton some time ago that his desire was to leave, seek new things, take the next step,” Igor revealed to Trivela. “It seems it will be difficult and complicated for him to stay here.”
“We have to be honest, the club already knows that. (I’m) very happy for him. He deserves it. He’s been here in England for five years and hasn’t played for a big team yet. It’s his moment, his time, so he can make the best decision and be happy wherever he is.
“He always told me that he really wants to live in London, so I think he will prioritise what comes from there first.
“I told [Pedro] that he has to think about what he wants from his career. In my opinion, if I were going to a ‘Big Six’ team, I would go to a team that fights for the Premier League, plays in the Champions League and is always in a position to win.
“I would go to a Liverpool team and I think he would fit in perfectly at Liverpool. It’s because I’ve always dreamed of playing for Liverpool and I would go there.”
Despite having two years remaining on his contract with Brighton since his £14m move from Fiorentina, he is expected to attract considerable attention as the summer transfer window progresses.
However, a bid from Liverpool seems unlikely. Arne Slot‘s squad boasts a strong centre-back lineup with Virgil van Dijk, Ibrahima Konate, Joe Gomez, and Jarell Quansah all available for selection.
This dynamic could shift if either of the latter duo opt for a summer exit amidst transfer speculation. Nevertheless, it’s likely that Liverpool will have other plans and targets in mind.
Liverpool were previously linked with an approach for ex-Bournemouth ace Dean Huijsen prior to his £50m transfer to Real Madrid. Goncalo Inacio’s name has surfaced too, but for now, Liverpool are looking to finalise deals for Florian Wirtz and Milos Kerkez.
Content Source: www.express.co.uk