De Zerbi tells Brighton star linked to Arsenal and Man United when he can leave

Kaoru Mitoma started the Wolves rout on the bench.

PREMIER LEAGUE De Zerbi tells Brighton star linked to Arsenal and Man United when he can leave

Mark Kinyanjui 19:03 - 29.04.2023

Mitoma has been linked with a summer move to Arsenal and Man United

Brighton and Hove Albion manager Roberto De Zerbi insists he would like Japanese breakthrough star, Kaoro Mitoma to stay at the club for at least another season.

Speaking to the press prior to their sides’ clash against Wolves, De Zerbi implored Mitoma to stay at Brighton not just for his development, but also for the team.

“He needs to stay here one more year, for him and for us”.

Mitoma’s Brighton deal expires in June 2025. This means he will likely be sold by the club next summer, while they can still get a good price for him.

Brighton have previously quoted Mitoma at £70 million, but this price may change depending on his form, fitness, and as he gets closer to his contract expiring.

Mitoma would be an excellent addition to any ‘big six’ Premier League club. At Brighton, he has shown he can cause pretty much any defender issues thanks to his ability and intelligence in the final third.

However, the 15-cap Japan international must choose his next destination carefully. He does not want to go to a club where he will simply warm the bench and provide backup for their current left winger.

Manchester United already have Marcus Rashford, Arsenal can rely on Gabriel Martinelli, and Chelsea spent a whopping £89m on Mykhaylo Mudryk earlier this year. As a result, Mitoma could snub the ‘big six’ altogether and instead join Newcastle.