Europe's top clubs target Kaoru Mitoma amid Liverpool, Bayern, PSG transfer interest

The interest of Europe's big clubs in Kaoru Mitoma (27, Brighton) is intense.

According to the British outlet 'GiveMeSport,' on the 14th (Korea time), "Liverpool is considering a summer transfer for Brighton winger Mitoma. Renowned European clubs, including Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), are also contemplating acquiring him."

Japan national team player Mitoma began his professional career at Kawasaki Frontale and transferred to Brighton in 2021. To acclimate to the European stage, he was immediately loaned to Belgium's Royal Union Saint-Gilloise, and after returning to Brighton in the summer of 2022, he displayed impressive performances. Notably, his ability to unsettle opposing defenses with extraordinary speed when brought on as a substitute stood out.

Under the new head coach Roberto De Zerbi, Mitoma continued to perform consistently. He appeared in 33 Premier League matches during the 2022-2023 season, recording 7 goals and 5 assists, leading Brighton to its first-ever UEFA Europa League (UEL) qualification.

Quickly establishing himself as Brighton's marquee star, he has also been recognized for his high marketing value in the Japanese market.

However, last season he struggled due to the effects of an injury. He managed only 3 goals and 4 assists in 19 league matches. He did not score a single goal in the UEL. Nevertheless, this season, he has scored 7 goals and provided 3 assists in 28 league matches, regaining his form.

Recently, his outstanding goal-scoring ability has garnered attention. Jamie Carragher, who played for Liverpool in the past, praised Mitoma's goal during the Chelsea match on the 9th of last month, saying, "It was the best touch in the Premier League this season. It reminded me of Lionel Messi. Mitoma is a genius." In that Chelsea match, Mitoma received a long pass from goalkeeper Père Brust and, after evading defenders, scored with a precise curling shot inside the penalty box. With this goal, Brighton achieved a 3-0 win.

Although interest from big clubs continues, reports suggest that Mitoma is likely to remain with Brighton. Foreign media outlet 'CaughtOffside' reported, "Despite interest from several clubs, Mitoma is very likely to sign a new contract with Brighton." Mitoma's current market value is estimated to be about £46 million (approximately 86.4 billion won).

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