“DEAL SEALED OVER A PHONE CALL” – Leeds United Approves Another Top Player’s Signing as His Arrival Time at Elland Road Has Been Revealed

Daniel Farke to Overhaul Leeds Defence as Igor Julio Emerges as Next Target

Leeds United manager Daniel Farke is preparing for a transformative summer at Elland Road, with plans to significantly strengthen his defensive options ahead of the 2025/26 season. Following the high-profile capture of Jaka Bijol from Udinese, the club is now eyeing another ambitious move — this time for Brighton & Hove Albion’s Igor Julio.

Farke is understood to be overseeing a comprehensive rebuild of the squad after securing promotion back to the Premier League. A key priority in that process is reinforcing a back line that will face the heightened demands of top-flight football. Sources indicate that the Leeds boss is intent on “changing everything” in terms of the team’s defensive structure, and Igor Julio has emerged as the next key piece of that puzzle.

Having secured the services of Slovenian international Bijol — a commanding centre-half known for his aerial prowess and leadership — Farke now wants to add pace, positional intelligence, and Premier League experience to the back four. Julio, who has featured for Brighton across domestic and European competition, fits the profile.

The Brazilian defender, 26, has been a reliable squad player for the Seagulls, offering versatility and composure on the ball. With Leeds keen to avoid another yo-yo campaign, Farke views Julio as a player who can provide balance alongside Bijol and potentially lead by example for the younger members of the squad.

The move for Igor Julio would represent another statement of intent from Leeds, who have moved quickly in the early weeks of the summer window. The club’s ambition is backed by the board, and Farke is being given the tools to shape a side capable not just of survival, but of consolidation in the Premier League.

While negotiations are still at a preliminary stage, Leeds are believed to be serious in their pursuit of Julio, and there is optimism that a deal can be struck. Brighton may be open to sanctioning a move if the financial terms suit, particularly with Roberto De Zerbi already reshaping his own defensive ranks.

Bijol’s arrival has already raised expectations among the Elland Road faithful. The 25-year-old centre-back impressed during his time in Serie A, and is widely regarded as a physically imposing presence capable of adapting quickly to the pace and intensity of English football.

But as Farke has made clear behind the scenes, one addition will not be enough to rectify the structural issues that plagued Leeds’ defence in recent seasons. A partnership with someone like Julio — who boasts both technical quality and Premier League familiarity — could be pivotal to the team’s tactical evolution.

The rebuild is underway at Leeds, and while many eyes will be on attacking reinforcements in the coming weeks, it’s clear that Daniel Farke views his back line as the foundation for long-term progress. With Igor Julio now firmly in the club’s sights, Elland Road could soon welcome another key figure in what promises to be a busy and ambitious summer.