Manchester City in pursuit of Kaoru Mitoma

Manchester City seems poised to make a decisive move towards securing the talents of Brighton & Hove Albion’s stylish winger, Kaoru Mitoma, potentially filling the void left by Riyad Mahrez. Reports from The Sun suggest that the club has identified Kaoru Mitoma as a prime candidate to step into the role vacated by Algerian star Riyad Mahrez, following his substantial transfer to Al Ahli in the Saudi Pro League.

Recently, Manchester City’s fortunes were elevated with the addition of Josko Gvardiol, a Croatian defensive prodigy who joined from RB Leipzig over the weekend. Their impeccable defensive performance during the previous season was already quite remarkable. However, the incorporation of Gvardiol into their lineup holds the potential to propel them to even greater heights.

The transfer dealings are far from concluded as the new season approaches. The team is already looking toward their next acquisition in the ongoing transfer window. In the wake of Mahrez’s departure to Saudi Arabia in July, Pep Guardiola now finds himself confronted with a scarcity of choices in the wide positions. As a result, the club has expressed keen interest in Brighton’s adept Japanese winger, Mitoma. The young talent, who left a strong impression during his breakout season at the Amex Stadium, could command a fee of up to £50 million.

Mitoma’s journey to Brighton commenced when he was signed from Japanese club Kawasaki Frontale in August of 2021. The preceding season witnessed Mitoma’s stint on loan at the affiliated Belgian team, Union Saint-Gilloise, where he aimed to gain valuable European experience. He performed admirably in the Jupiler Pro League, amassing a tally of eight goals and four assists in 29 appearances, which paved the way for his return to Brighton’s senior squad.

Since then, Mitoma has emerged as a standout player for the Seagulls, carving a niche for himself under the guidance of Roberto De Zerbi. His remarkable contribution of ten goals and seven assists across 33 matches significantly impacted Brighton’s foray into the upper echelons of the English top-flight.

The 25-year-old’s dazzling performances have captured the attention of prestigious clubs. Although he has nearly two years remaining on his contract at the Amex Stadium, negotiations are underway for a potential five-year extension. Nevertheless, Mitoma appears to be keeping his options open, clearly tempted by external overtures.

It comes as no surprise that his talents have piqued the curiosity of multiple suitors. As per the report, both Arsenal and Chelsea have expressed interest in Mitoma. However, Brighton has staunchly rejected their advances, demonstrating a firm resolve to retain the dynamic winger’s services for at least another season.

While substantial departures for considerable profits are not an unfamiliar sight at Amex, executing too many such deals within a single window could potentially undermine the club’s aspirations. The coastal club is on the cusp of securing the signature of highly sought-after midfielder Mohammed Kudus, indicating their ambitions for the upcoming season.

Guardiola’s interest could ultimately sway Mitoma’s decision. This rumor presents itself as one that merits close observation during the final weeks of the transfer window. Nevertheless, the publication notes that Brighton is “unlikely to let both” Caicedo and Mitoma depart during this window, suggesting that Manchester City’s level of interest in Mitoma could potentially influence Chelsea’s pursuit of Caicedo.