'Arsenal are closely scouting Kaoru Mitoma - his big-game displays are dazzling'
Arsenal are keen on Brighton star Kaoru Mitoma but have concerns over the winger's consistency and will instruct their scouts to take a closer look.
That is according to former Man United and Blackburn chief scout Mick Brown, who remains very well-connected within the game, as he exclusively confirmed to Football Insider that the 28-year-old is a target at the Emirates Stadium.
Mitoma has caught the eye ever since becoming a regular starter for Brighton in the 2022-23 campaign.
Football Insider revealed last month (22 April) that Brighton will not stand in the winger's way this summer if Saudi giants Al Nassr make a suitable offer.
The Saudi Pro League side saw a bid of almost £55million for Mitoma rejected in January and Arsenal could now join the race for his signature.
Arsenal have concerns over Mitoma's consistency, says Brown
Mitoma made 41 appearances in the 2024-25 campaign, notching 11 goals and four assists.
Brown suggested Arsenal could sign an upgrade on Gabriel Martinelli this summer if the right opportunity presents itself.
| Appearances (Starts) | 41 (32) |
| Minutes Played | 2966 |
| Goals | 11 |
| Assists | 4 |
| Yellow Cards | 1 |
The former scout, who has a wealth of experience in top-level player recruitment after over a decade at Man United during their most successful period, claimed the Gunners have concerns over Mitoma's performances in less important fixtures.
"One player Arsenal have been looking at is Kaoru Mitoma," he told Football Insider.
"He'd been out of the Brighton side at the end of the season because of injury issues.
"He's one of those players who, whenever Brighton have a big game, he can step up his performance and look like a wonderful player.
"But they have a few concerns about his consistency and whether he reaches those same levels in your average games against somebody like Brentford.
"When he's on top of his game, he can be dangerous and that would make him an asset to Arsenal.
"Especially when you think they might be looking to upgrade on Martinelli.
"So their scouts will be looking at him to assess whether his consistency is going to be an issue, they'll know whether he's good enough to make a difference in their side.
"There's no doubt he's a very talented player, but they want him to show that every week."
Man City set for Arsenal transfer battle
Meanwhile, Football Insider has revealed (24 May) that Man City now face competition from Arsenal in their bid to sign Morgan Gibbs-White.
Man City have turned their attention towards Gibbs-White as their top target with their move for Florian Wirtz on the verge of collapse.
Arsenal are set to compete with City for the playmaker’s signature after Forest failed to secure qualification for the Champions League or Europa League.
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