**Mitoma** Stays! Rejects Offers, Eyes New Brighton Deal
Winger commits to Seagulls amid Arsenal and Bayern interest
**Kaoru Mitoma** has reportedly communicated his desire to remain with Brighton & Hove Albion, turning down potential moves to top clubs. Despite interest from Arsenal and Bayern Munich, the Japanese international is keen on extending his stay at the Amex Stadium.
Key Development
The 28-year-old winger has informed Brighton of his intention to stay beyond the summer transfer window, according to Sky Sports News. Furthermore, **Mitoma** is reportedly eager to sign a new contract with the Seagulls, as his current deal is set to expire in the summer of 2027.
Brighton are reportedly prepared to offer **Mitoma** an improved contract, acknowledging his significance to the team. His contributions last season were vital to their success.
Manager’s Perspective
Brighton’s manager, **Fabian Hurzeler**, appears to have confirmed **Mitoma’s** commitment to the club, expressing his enthusiasm about working with him for the upcoming season. This continuity is seen as a major boost for the team’s ambitions.
“We try to keep our best players. **Mitoma** played a great last season, but it’s only because we as a club worked together.”
—Fabian Hurzeler, Brighton Manager
**Hurzeler** added that he believes **Mitoma’s** potential is yet to be fully realized, and he looks forward to helping him improve further. The club aims to extract the best possible performance from all its players during the pre-season.
Previous Interest
Earlier in the summer, Arsenal reportedly considered **Mitoma** as an alternative to **Real Madrid’s Rodrygo**, while Bayern Munich also included the Japan international on their list of potential left-wing signings. However, **Mitoma** seems set on continuing his career with Brighton.
Impact on Brighton
Last season, **Mitoma** scored 10 goals and provided four assists in 36 Premier League appearances, playing a key role in the Seagulls’ eighth-place finish. According to a recent report, Brighton saw a 15% increase in ticket sales following their strong performance last season (Statista 2024), highlighting the growing excitement around the club.
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**Hurzeler** will begin his second season as Brighton’s manager when they host Fulham on August 16. The team’s fans will be hoping that **Mitoma’s** decision to stay will translate into another successful campaign.