Brighton & Hove Albion have announced the signing of Igor Julio from Fiorentina, with the centre-back penning a four-year contract at the Amex.

The 25-year-old's future has been the subject of much speculation in recent weeks, with a number of clubs believed to have expressed an interest in signing him during the summer transfer window.

However, Roberto De Zerbi's side have now confirmed a deal for the Brazilian, who has left Fiorentina having made 110 appearances for the Italian giants in all competitions.

Igor was a key player for Fiorentina last term, featuring on 42 occasions, including 11 appearances in the Europa Conference League, with the Serie A outfit losing to West Ham United in the final.

The defender will now make the step-up into the Europa League with Brighton, as the Seagulls finished sixth in the 2022-23 Premier League to secure a spot in the group stage of the competition.

Brighton have not specified the amount paid, but Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano recently claimed that a fee of €17m (£14.7m) plus add-ons had been agreed for his services.

"I'm very happy and excited to start playing as soon as possible. I'm happy to be here," Igor told Brighton's official website. "I want to be here to play for the coach that wanted me and the style of play at Brighton also fits well with my own style.

"It's a childhood dream to play in the Premier League, I'm very excited. It's always been my goal to play here. I'm really happy to reach this level.

"As always, I'm going to play the hardest as possible on the pitch. I'll do my best every day, but most importantly to try and win the heart of the fans.

"It's always good to have an experience in European competition. It's my first time playing in the Europa League but I'm hoping to add to the team as much as possible and play as hard as I can to help in our European journey.

"I can't wait to train and play for Roberto. He's a fantastic coach and I think I can evolve so much under him. I want to become one of the best defenders in the team. When he left Italy he already had a big name, but after what he has achieved here his acknowledgment in Italy is even bigger."

Meanwhile, De Zerbi added: "Igor is another important player who can help us in a crucial position within the team; where the play starts."

Igor is set to link up with his new teammates next week, with his debut for the Seagulls potentially coming against Rayo Vallecano at the Amex on August 6. body check tags ::