Brighton & Hove Albion are reportedly interested in signing Brazilian defender Luis Eduardo Soares da Silva, known widely as Cuiabano.
According to journalist David Ornstein, Brighton have made the Botafogo full-back one of their main summer targets to strengthen their backline.
The club are also keeping close watch on Diego Coppola of Hellas Verona, as they plan to bring in at least one defender.
Cuiabano has attracted interest from several clubs across Europe in recent months. Turkish giants Fenerbahce tried to sign him in January, but Botafogo rejected their offer.
The player only joined the club from Gremio last year and is under contract until June 2027.
Brighton have had their offers for Cuiabano rejected by Botafogo
Brighton have made two separate offers for Cuiabano in the past few weeks, but both were knocked back by Botafogo.
Their first proposal was worth £ 4.2 million with an additional £1.7m in add-ons included in the deal.
They returned with a second offer of the same £4.2m fee, but with £2.5m in add-ons.
This revised bid failed to meet Botafogo’s expectations and was also turned down.
Brighton have a reputation for astute signings, having brought in Moises Caicedo, Alexis Mac Allister and several other players cheaply.
After developing them in the Premier League, they later sold those players for big profits.
Cuiabano fits the profile of a Brighton signing – young, talented and with potential to grow under the right coaching.
He can play as a left-back or further up the pitch on the left side of midfield, which adds to his value.
The Brazilian has played 19 times this season, bagging two goals and three assists across all competitions.
He has made 49 appearances overall for Botafogo, playing a key role in their Copa Libertadores and Serie A successes.
The club had not won the Brazilian top flight since 1995, making that triumph a significant highlight in their history.
Brighton may return with an improved offer in the coming weeks, hoping to get their man before other clubs move in.
