News has emerged that Kaoru Mitoma (27, Brighton) has come under the radar of prestigious clubs.

On the 14th (Korean time), British 'Give Me Sport' reported, 'Liverpool is considering the summer transfer of Brighton winger Mitoma. European powerhouses such as Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) are also considering signing him.'

Japan national team representative Mitoma began his professional career with Kawasaki Frontale and transferred to Brighton in 2021. To adapt to the European stage, he was immediately loaned to Royal Union Saint-Gilloise in Belgium, and he returned to Brighton in the summer of 2022, demonstrating impressive performances. Notably, his ability to shake off opposing defenders with remarkable speed when substituted in the second half stood out.

Under the new leadership of head coach Roberto De Zerbi, Mitoma continued to perform consistently. He played in 33 Premier League matches during the 2022-2023 season, scoring 7 goals and providing 5 assists, leading Brighton to their first-ever entry into the UEFA Europa League (UEL).

Quickly establishing himself as Brighton's star player, he also gained high marketing value in the Japanese market.

However, he struggled last season due to injury. He recorded only 3 goals and 4 assists in 19 league matches. He did not score a single goal in the UEL. But this season, he has regained his form, contributing 7 goals and 3 assists in 28 league matches.

Recently, his exceptional goal-scoring ability has garnered attention. Jamie Carragher, who once played for Liverpool, praised Mitoma's goal scored in the match against Chelsea on the 9th of last month, saying, 'It was the best touch of 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 Ferbryhun in the 26th minute of the first half, evaded defenders, and scored with an exquisite curling shot from inside the penalty box. With this goal, Brighton secured a 3-0 victory.

While interest from major clubs continues, reports suggest that Mitoma is likely to stay with Brighton. Foreign media 'Cut Offside' reported, 'Despite the interest from several clubs, it is highly likely that Mitoma will sign a new contract with Brighton.' Mitoma's current market value is estimated to be around £46 million (approximately 86.4 billion won).

Al Nassr, the team in the Saudi Arabia league where Cristiano Ronaldo (39) plays, initially targeted Mitoma but was rejected.

According to British BBC, Al Nassr offered Brighton approximately £54 million (around 98.1 billion won) to acquire midfielder Mitoma, but the proposal was rejected.

Al Nassr is continuing its aggressive recruitment efforts in the Saudi league. After signing key players including Ronaldo, they also targeted Mitoma, who could expand their marketing in Asia. However, they were unable to reach an agreement.

The reason Al Nassr has been actively pursuing signings was shared by the British media 'Sports Sky.' The media noted, 'Al Nassr wants to strengthen its squad significantly to help Ronaldo, who will turn 40, win his first Saudi league title.'

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