The Seagulls are facing a battle to hold one of their most prized assets but could be set to lose one of their first-team stars next year with fresh report he’s wanted by a high-profile clubs

Brighton and Hove Albion could lose one of their first-team stars next season, according to a new report. He is wanted by a high-profile club in the summer.

Recent Brighton departures

During the previous window, the Seagulls sanctioned the sale of 21 players on a permanent or loan basis, with some of the biggest names to leave for good being Moises Caicedo, Alex Mac Allister, and Robert Sanchez, but more could soon follow in their footsteps.

Roberto De Zerbi has Danny Welbeck, James Milner, and Adam Lallana, all of whom will have reached the end of their contracts at the end of the current season (Brighton contracts), and who are likely to leave if they are not offered a contract extension.

Kaoru Mitoma joined The Amex in 2021 and has since gone on to make a total of 60 appearances (Transfermarkt – Mitoma statistics), and the left-winger was recently rewarded for his efforts by signing new terms.

According to the above outlet, Japan’s international signed an improved contract in October that will keep him at the club until at least 2027, but despite committing his long-term future just two months ago, the 26-year-old has emerged as a target for a Premier League admirer.

Kaoru Mitoma is a target for Manchester City.

Man City is interested in Mitoma, according to Spanish reports (via The Hard Tackle). The Sky Blues are eager to complete a deal for the forward at the end of the season, with Pep Guardiola a big fan of his target.

Brighton have set a price tag of €70-80m (£59-68m) to sanction the sale of their prized asset, so it will be interesting to see if this deal goes through.

Mitoma is a “beautiful talent” that Brighton must keep.

Mitoma has made seven Premier League contributions (four assists and three goals) in 13 appearances this season, so considering his excellent current form as well as the positive influence he has on the team, Brighton must do everything possible to keep him.

The Kawasaki native, who is sponsored by Puma, has taken 23 shots this season, more than any of his teammates (FBRef – Brighton statistics), demonstrating how he stands out in the final third when compared to his peers.

De Zerbi’s “beautiful talent,” as hailed by journalist Josh Bunting, is also a versatile operator, having been deployed in five different positions across the grass since the start of his career, including three roles across the frontline and two in the midfield, so keeping him in the building beyond next summer is a no-brainer.