Liverpool are monitoring Brighton winger Kaoru Mitoma as the Japan international enters the final year of his contract amid stalled renewal talks. With no breakthrough on fresh terms, his situation is drawing attention from several Premier League clubs, including Tottenham, as well as European sides.
Mitoma signed a four-year extension with Brighton in October 2023 that runs until June 2027, reportedly earning around £80,000 per week. Despite this, negotiations have stalled, and interest from other clubs appears to have complicated the picture. Brighton face a decision on whether to sell the 29-year-old before his contract expires or risk losing him for free. His current injury status also factors into their strategy, as he is recovering from a hamstring injury sustained in May that ended his season early and ruled him out of the World Cup.
Tottenham’s interest carries a particular angle due to their manager Roberto De Zerbi, who worked with Mitoma during his time at Brighton. Spurs have been reshaping their squad under De Zerbi and could see Mitoma as a tactical fit. A January move might appeal if the price is reasonable, especially given Spurs’ broader scouting of forwards from Asia. However, their pursuit appears to be part of a wider market survey rather than focused solely on Mitoma.
Liverpool’s interest is longstanding. The club’s recruitment valued Mitoma’s talents even before his move from Kawasaki Frontale to Brighton. His profile as a proven Premier League winger with strong one-on-one ability remains attractive, especially as his contract winds down and his potential transfer fee may fall below typical market rates. That said, Liverpool are observing rather than pushing to act immediately. They will weigh his age, wage demands, fitness, and how he fits within Andoni Iraola’s squad plans.
Mitoma’s recovery from injury complicates matters further. Brighton are cautious, monitoring his rehabilitation before any urgent sale. Clubs might hold off, waiting for a free transfer in 2027 rather than committing now. Bayern Munich and other European teams have also shown interest, adding to the options available.
Brighton’s window to regain control of the situation is closing. The club must decide whether to accept an early offer that reflects the risk of losing Mitoma for free or hold out and potentially lose him without compensation. Meanwhile, Tottenham and Liverpool remain positioned to watch and act should circumstances become favourable.
From Liverpool’s perspective, Mitoma combines proven Premier League quality with some reservations. His age and recent injury raise questions, and with the club undergoing transition under Iraola, any signing must fit long-term plans rather than simply seize a bargain. Liverpool’s history of interest suggests internal discussions will continue, but no concrete moves have been confirmed.
Mitoma’s form on return and Brighton’s stance on his future will shape the coming months. For now, Liverpool and Tottenham are keeping a close eye on developments as the winger approaches a critical point in his career and contract.
According to Yahoo Sports.
