Interest from prestigious European clubs surrounding Kaoru Mitoma (Brighton & Hove Albion) is intensifying. With the end of the season, the excitement in the transfer market is heightening.
Florian Plettenberg of Sky Sports Germany reported on the 25th (Korean time) that "Arsenal has identified Mitoma as one of the candidates for winger acquisitions in the summer transfer market."
Although Arsenal is not the first big club to be mentioned, the fact that they have officially added him to their acquisition list has been revealed.
The interest does not stop at Arsenal. Bayern Munich is also continuing underground contact to acquire Mitoma. According to Plettenberg, Bayern Munich has already attempted contact with Mitoma's camp and recently met with the agent for a conversation. However, Bayern Munich's Director General, Max Eberl, has not yet made an official offer.
Bayern's push to acquire Mitoma aligns with the uncertainty of their wing resources. Kingsley Coman has not gained trust throughout the season due to frequent injuries, and Leroy Sané is also in a deadlock regarding contract talks. Bayern is paying attention to the fact that Mitoma's style differs from existing players, and has sent scouts to Brighton this season to observe his skills directly.
As transfer rumors surface, Mitoma has expressed his position through Japanese media.
In an interview published by Sports Hochi, Mitoma stated, "I can't say anything right now" and kept his comments brief. He added, "First, recovering my physical condition is a priority. Since I was not called up to the national team this time, I will concentrate on rehabilitation to prepare for next season."
When asked about a transfer to a club participating in the UEFA Champions League, he answered briefly, "That is also one of my goals," keeping the possibility open.
Sports Hochi predicts that "Mitoma, who has firmly rejected offers from Saudi Arabia, indicating a desire to aim for world-class status, could move to one of the big clubs in Europe this summer."
Additionally, it forecasts, "While his destination remains uncertain, it is clear that this summer will revolve around Mitoma."
Meanwhile, on the 26th, Mitoma recorded the last assist of the season in a match against Tottenham Hotspur in the final 38th round of the Premier League, contributing to Brighton's 4-1 victory. With this match finishing the season, he recorded 10 goals and 4 assists in 36 Premier League games, becoming the first Japanese player to achieve double-digit scoring in a single season in the Premier League. Including the FA Cup, his total record is 11 goals and 4 assists.
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