Credit: @PremierLeague / X

Arsenal and Bayern Munich Eye Brighton Winger Kaoru Mitoma

The tug of war for Kaoru Mitoma looks set to be one of the most intriguing transfer stories of the summer.

Credit: @PremierLeague / X

As the summer transfer window approaches, Arsenal have reportedly entered the race to sign Brighton winger Kaoru Mitoma. The Gunners have joined German giants Bayern Munich in closely monitoring the Japanese international’s situation. Mitoma has been one of Brighton’s most consistent performers in the league since his breakout 2022/23 campaign.

While Mikel Arteta remains keen on bringing the Brazilian to North London, there are a lot financial complexities involved in bringing Rodrygo away from the Spanish capital. As a result, the Gunners are looking towards more realistic options. Mitoma present a cheaper option with his reported valuation in the range of €40–45 million.

Congratulations, Kaoru Mitoma! 🙌

His strike against Chelsea is awarded the 2024-25 goal of the season 🏆⚽#MOTD #BBCFootball pic.twitter.com/JJuwP7muEL
— Match of the Day (@BBCMOTD) May 25, 2025

The 28-year-old has continued to impress in the Premier League this season with his pace, flair, and direct attacking style. According to journalist Florian Plettenberg, Arsenal are considering Mitoma as a viable alternative to their top target, which is Real Madrid’s Rodrygo.

Bayern and Arsenal in Tug of War for Mitoma

Arsenal are understood to be prioritizing reinforcements in attack after narrowly missing out on the Premier League title. Mitoma’s ability to stretch defences, create chances, and provide consistent output from wide areas has placed him firmly on the club’s radar. The Gunners have previously enjoyed productive transfer dealings with Brighton, having secured both Ben White and Leandro Trossard from the South Coast club in recent windows.

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Meanwhile, Bayern Munich are also actively scouting Mitoma as they look to refresh their attack. With Florian Wirtz reportedly nearing a move to Liverpool, Bayern have turned to Mitoma as one of their key fallback options. The Bundesliga giants have sent scouts to observe the Brighton star on multiple occasions and view him as a strong candidate to inject creativity into their wide areas.

🚨🆕 Not only are FC Bayern interested in Kaoru #Mitoma — Arsenal have also added him to their list for the summer!

Andrea Berta and his team are assessing various profiles/candidates for the wing. Mitoma is one of them. Rodrygo is considered the dream signing, but a potential… pic.twitter.com/6QxAlAEHQb
— Florian Plettenberg (@Plettigoal) May 25, 2025

Brighton, however, are under no immediate pressure to sell. Mitoma is under contract until 2027 and remains a valued asset at the club. Still, with interest growing and his stock rising, the Seagulls may be tempted to consider serious offers in the coming weeks. While no formal bids have been submitted as of yet, the tug of war for Mitoma looks set to be one of the most intriguing transfer stories of the summer.

Arsenal

Bayern Munich

Brighton & Hove Albion

Kaoru Mitoma

Abhinav Goel

soccer

I am a soccer writer at The PlayOffs, covering everything from match analysis to transfer buzz and tactical deep dives. Ever since I was a kid, soccer has been more than just a sport to me—it’s been an obsession. Playing and watching the game from a young age fueled my passion, eventually leading me into the world of sports media and betting. Now, I get to analyze the sport I love and bring the latest updates to fans worldwide.