Another player who starred for West Ham this season has become a target for Brazilian side Cruzeiro after Lucas Puketa left for Flamengo.
Paqueta took time out from his Premier League career to return to his home country and embark on a new adventure.
The Brazilian midfielder showed his quality during his time in the Premier League and was one of West Ham’s best players at the club during his time in East London.
However, he wanted to feel more comfortable and closer to his surroundings, so he decided to return to his boyhood club Flamengo.
Igor Julio is wanted by Brazil’s Cruzeiro
Brighton player Igor Julio, who was on loan at West Ham this season, is being pursued by Cruzeiro, according to Brazilian journalist Samuel Venancio.
The Brazilian defender made just four appearances for the Hammers during his loan spell between September and January.
He initially joined on a season-long loan, but his loan was terminated during the winter transfer window.
Brighton are finding it difficult to feature regularly for the Hammers and have decided to recall him to the club.
Brighton star fails at West Ham this season
The 27-year-old centre-back, who can also play as a left-back, will be offered the chance by his home club to revive his career away from the Premier League, where he has found it difficult to make ends meet.
Brighton are not in favor of further loans for the defender, only asking for him to leave permanently.
Palmeiras had been linked with Igor in the past, but were not willing to pay Brighton’s £6m offer.
Surprisingly, Cruzeiro will play the first match of the year against Flamengo and Igor could play against Paqueta in that match.
The Brazilian club has until March 3 to sign the defender.
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