Photo IMAGO
Kaoru Mitoma is moving into a delicate phase of his Brighton career, and the sense around the market is that his situation could become one of the more attractive opportunities for leading clubs over the coming windows. According to TeamTalk, Tottenham and Liverpool are among those keeping a close eye on developments as the winger approaches the final stretch of his current deal.
Mitoma’s contract position is what makes this especially relevant. The Japan international is entering the last season of his agreement at Brighton, and while there had been hope earlier in the year that fresh terms could be agreed, there has been no meaningful breakthrough. For Brighton, that naturally sharpens the decision-making. They can look to protect value in the market, or hold their nerve and risk seeing an important player edge closer to leaving for nothing.
The 29-year-old signed a four-year extension in October 2023 through to 30 June 2027, on around £80,000 a week, placing him among the stronger earners at the club. Yet the picture has changed. Interest from elsewhere appears to be a significant factor, and the longer discussions drift, the more realistic an exit begins to feel.
Photo: IMAGO
Tottenham interest and Roberto De Zerbi factor
One strand to watch is Tottenham. The possibility of a reunion with Roberto De Zerbi gives the story a degree of logic, particularly given their previous work together at Brighton. Familiarity matters in recruitment, especially when a coach wants players capable of adapting quickly to specific tactical demands.
Spurs have already committed heavily to reshaping the squad under De Zerbi, and while the broader form has yet to fully reflect that investment, Mitoma could represent a practical addition if the price is favourable. A winter move on reduced terms would appeal if Tottenham believe he can make an immediate impact in the second half of the campaign.
There is also a broader context to…
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