Liverpool is targeting the acquisition of Brighton's Japanese winger Kaoru Mitoma (27).

The British media outlet TeamTalk reported on the 16th (Korean time) that 'Liverpool is showing interest in acquiring Mitoma this summer.'

Brighton is currently in 9th place in the Premier League. The possibility of advancing to European competitions is also slim. The club is desperate to qualify for Europe in order to retain key players. However, it does not seem easy to keep Mitoma.

Japanese national team member Mitoma began his professional career at Kawasaki Frontale before transferring to Brighton in 2021. He was immediately loaned to the Royal Union Saint-Gilloise in Belgium to adapt to the European stage, and returned to Brighton in the summer of 2022, displaying impressive performances. His exceptional speed and ability to disrupt opposing defenses when substituted in the second half stood out.

According to the report, Liverpool has been monitoring Mitoma for some time. Brighton is aware of this.

Mitoma has recorded 8 goals and 3 assists in the league this season. He is playing as one of the most important players under head coach Fabian Hürzeler.

Brighton is contracted with Mitoma until 2027.

A Saudi Arabian league team is also targeting Mitoma. He received an offer of up to $61 million from Saudi Arabia's Al Nassr last January. Al Nassr is still in contact with Mitoma's side and may attempt to acquire him again this summer. TeamTalk reported that 'Brighton is planning to demand $80 million as a transfer fee for Mitoma.' This could be a significant variable affecting Liverpool's acquisition efforts.

Liverpool will pursue strengthening their squad this summer to support their new head coach Arne Slot. Funding is reportedly secured. While they are considering the acquisition of Newcastle striker Alexander Isak, the transfer fee could exceed $150 million, making it uncertain whether it will lead to a successful acquisition.

TeamTalk speculated, 'If Brighton receives a high transfer fee proposal for Mitoma from Liverpool, they are likely to accept it.'

Liverpool's Luis Díaz is attracting interest from major European clubs, including Barcelona, and analysts suggest that his future situation could impact Liverpool's scenario for acquiring Mitoma.

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