Manchester United have reportedly sent scouts to watch Brighton and Hove Albion’s Kaoru Mitoma in action.
According to The Sun, the Red Devils have outlined the Japanese starlet as a potential addition in the summer transfer window.
Mitoma joined the Seagulls in 2021 for a fee of just £2.7 million. He then spent a season on loan in Belgium with Union Saint-Gillosie.
After returning to England, he made his Brighton debut last August under Graham Potter and went on to kickstart his season under current manager Roberto De Zerbi. The 25-year-old now has nine goals and six assists in all competitions and he has received plaudits for his sensational dribbling and finishing ability.
He will line up against United in April when the Red Devils and Brighton travel to Wembley to face off in the FA Cup semi-finals. Given both sides’ form this term, it’s looking like it’ll be a thrilling clash.
Brighton’s transfer policy – how it impacts clubs
One thing for sure is that if De Zerbi does allow Mitoma to leave at the end of the season, the Brighton hierarchy will ensure they set a high valuation. The club have developed a process of bringing in players for a low fee and developing them into stars, so much so that they become sought-after by Europe’s elite.
Marc Cucurella left the Amex last summer for Chelsea, with the Blues paying £62 million, whilst Arsenal forked out £50 million to acquire Ben White in 2021.
In January, both of the aforementioned London clubs had set their sights on Moises Caicedo. The Gunners saw £60 million and £70 million bids rejected before ultimately giving up in their pursuit of the Ecuador international.
The likes of Caicedo, Mitoma and World Cup winner Alexis Mac Allister are all expected to be hot prospects when the next transfer window opens, and Brighton will be rubbing their hands together at the thought.
Mitoma will be a fantastic addition to MU.