Karou Mitoma set to join Saudi club after Brighton’s ‘huge offer’ – sources
Brighton star Kaoru Mitoma could be set to join the Saudi Pro League in the summer transfer window, sources have told Football Insider.
Speaking on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, senior correspondent Pete O’Rourke revealed that interest from the Middle East has grown in recent months and clubs are now prepared to make formal offers.
Despite turning down a “huge offer” during the January transfer window, Brighton are now believed to be open to the 27-year-old’s departure this summer.
As things stand, there are no plans to extend his contract beyond its 2027 expiry date, leading to suggestions he will be sold if an acceptable offer is made.
Alongside interest from the Saudi Pro League, Liverpool have shown an interest in Mitoma as speculation ramps up about his future at the Amex.
Meanwhile, Football Insider journalist Connor Humm revealed on 21 February that Chelsea want to sign Mitoma as they are looking to strengthen their attacking options.
Brighton could sell Kaoru Mitoma after ‘huge’ offer
Former Man United chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insider in February that Brighton will demand “huge” money for Mitoma this summer.
Alongside a number of Saudi Pro League outfits, both Chelsea and Liverpool are believed to have been keeping tabs on his situation with a possible move in mind.
While Mitoma is widely believed to be happy at Brighton, the club are growing increasingly likely to entertain talks over his departure if they can make a significant profit.
Fabian Hurzeler has had a mixed first season in charge at the Amex but remains keen to stamp his mark on the squad by recruiting heavily this summer.
As part of Brighton’s ambitious plans for the future, they believe selling before they buy will place the club in a strong position, particularly after last summer’s £200million spend.
Bart Verbruggen update emerges amid Man United interest
Mitoma is not the only Brighton player to have been linked with a move away from the South Coast this summer amid speculation surrounding Bart Verbruggen’s future.
Brown told Football Insider on 15 April that Man United are interested in Verbruggen after sources at the club claimed he “will be the next United goalkeeper”.
The 22-year-old has been a long-term target at Old Trafford and is seen as an upgrade on Andre Onana, who has been a cause for concern in recent months.
However, Brown told Football Insider in March that Brighton would demand a “massive” fee for Verbruggen and are extremely reluctant to let him leave the club.
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