According to Sky Germany, talks between the clubs are under way and Brighton are prepared to find common ground with the promoted side, who cannot match the kind of fee Brighton paid when they signed the Brazilian from Fiorentina for €16.5m in 2023.
The structure under discussion has evolved. What initially appeared to be a loan with an option to buy has shifted toward a loan with an obligation to buy — a change that would guarantee Brighton a transfer fee in the summer of 2027 while giving Schalke time to assemble the necessary funds.
Igor, 28, spent the first half of last season on loan at West Ham United before the move was cut short in January after limited playing time. He returned to Brighton without making an appearance and played just five matches in total under Fabian Hürzeler last season. His contract at Falmer stadium runs until 2027.
His profile suits Schalke's needs. The left-footed Brazilian is capable of playing as a central defender or at left-back, and arrives with experience of top-flight football in Austria, Italy and the Premier League.
A lower loan fee is expected in exchange for the guaranteed purchase obligation. No agreement has been finalised and the outcome of negotiations remains open.