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Arsenal have Man United target Mitoma as a backup for Kubo swoop

By on April 28, 2024

Kaoru Mitoma Brighton

Arsenal will look to sign Brighton winger Kaoru Mitoma if a deal for his compatriot Takefuso Kubo falls through, as per Fichajes.

Mikel Arteta wants to strengthen his attack this summer and as well as bringing in a top class striker, the Gunners boss also reportedly wants another winger to compete with Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli.

According to Fichajes, Real Sociedad’s Kubo is Arsenal’s main target but they acknowledge a deal will be difficult so they have lined-up Mitoma as a ‘Plan B’ option.

The interest in Mitoma will stem not just from the fact that Arsenal’s previous Brighton acquisitions, Ben White and Leandro Trossard, ended up being tremendous successes, but rather from the promise of what the 26-year-old could bring to their project.

Mitoma has proven to be a dynamic and versatile winger in the few seasons he’s played in the Premier League. He’s known for his outstanding dribbling abilities, scorching pace, and accurate crossing. His erratic and evasive moves frequently confuse full-backs, allowing him to create scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates.

Furthermore,  the acquisition of another Samurai in addition to Endo would certainly help the team attract even more fans in their country. The Premier League is so popular in Japan that Japanese bookmakers often put special odds on matches featuring Mitoma.

Many have earmarked him as the next talent to leave the Amex Stadium. Having previously done business with the Seagulls, the Gunners must be aware that Brighton are fierce negotiators, which could pose a difficulty in this transfer.

Competition for Mitoma

Aside from the anticipated difficult negotiations, the report says Manchester United and Manchester City are also showing a keen interest so Arsenal face stiff competition.

The Red Devils seem to be closely monitoring Mitoma as they consider replacing players such as Antony and Jadon Sancho this summer.

Transfermarkt values the Japanese international at £39 million, but given his potential, the fact that his contract isn’t up until 2027, and the anticipated transfer battle between the Gunners, City and United, Brighton may hold out for much more.

Arsenal will need to make a significant bid if Mitoma follows in the footsteps of Trossard and White and transfers to the Emirates Stadium this summer.