Brighton star Kaoru Mitoma has reportedly reached an agreement to extend his contract with the club for an additional five years, despite strong interest from various teams, including both Manchester clubs. The 26-year-old initially joined the Seagulls from Japanese club Kawasaki Frontale in August 2021, and after a loan spell at Union SG for the 2021-22 season, he established himself as a standout player on the South Coast under the guidance of head coach Roberto De Zerbi.
His remarkable rise in European football has attracted attention from several top clubs, with recent reports suggesting that Manchester City and Manchester United are considering a January move for the talented winger. Other prominent European clubs have also shown interest in Mitoma, who has only two years remaining on his contract at the American Express Community Stadium.
However, it has been reported that Mitoma has declined offers from various European clubs and is on the verge of committing his future to Brighton by signing a new five-year contract, which would bind him to the club until the summer of 2028. According to the report, the winger has agreed to terms for a new contract worth £80,000 per week, and the deal is expected to be finalised within the next 24 hours.
Mitoma had an impressive 2022-23 season, contributing with 10 goals and eight assists in 41 appearances for Brighton across all competitions, which helped the Seagulls secure a sixth-place finish in the Premier League and secure their first ever qualification for the Europa League. In the new campaign, Mitoma has continued to shine, recording three goals and four assists in 10 games across all competitions.
Lead agent Keisuke Sekine is credited as a key figure in negotiating the contract, and Mitoma is fully dedicated to Brighton’s project under the management of Roberto De Zerbi.
