Brighton are closing in on a deal for Fiorentina defender Igor Julio having found Chelsea resistant to their advances for Levi Colwill.
The Brazilian centre back impressed for the Italian side last campaign as they finished eighth in Serie A and reached the Europa Conference League final.
The 25-year-old has one year left on his contract with Viola and could command a fee in the region of £14m.
Roberto De Zerbi's Seagulls will play in the Europa League in 2023-24 after finishing sixth in the Premier League last campaign.
The Italian wants to strengthen his defensive ranks, with Chelsea keen to keep hold of Levi Colwill after the 20-year-old impressed on loan at the Amex last season.
Brighton's have also emerged as favourites to snap up Manchester City youngster Cole Palmer, who was part of England's triumphant U21 squad.
The 21-year-old scored once and assisted on three occasions as the Young Lions secured a famous win in Georgia earlier this month.
Palmer also made 25 appearances for Pep Guardiola's Man City last season as they claimed the FA Cup, League Cup and Champions League.
After Igor, he could be the seventh player through the door at the Amex following the summer additions of James Milner, Mahmoud Dahoud, Adrian Mazilu, Bart Verbruggen and Joao Pedro.