Barcelona 'join the race for in-demand attacker Kaoru Mitoma'

Barcelona have reportedly expressed an interest in signing Brighton & Hove Albion's Kaoru Mitoma.

There is currently a host of speculation surrounding the Japan international's future, with a number of clubs said to be keen to purchase him in the near future.

A recent report claimed that both Manchester City and Manchester United are planning to make offers for the 26-year-old in 2024, with Brighton facing a huge battle to keep hold of him.

Mitoma's existing deal at the Amex is due to expire in June 2025, but the club are said to be in discussions with him over a new long-term contract.

Earlier this month, it was claimed that the forward had agreed a five-year deal, although Brighton have not yet made an announcement when it comes to his future at the club.

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The Seagulls will allegedly entertain offers for Mitoma even if he signs a new deal, with the club recently demonstrating that they are prepared to sell their best players for the right price.

Brighton are believed to value the forward in the region of £70m, although that could rise if he continues to make strong steps forward during the 2023-24 campaign.

Mitoma made the move to Brighton from Kawasaki Frontale in 2021, but he spent the 2021-22 campaign on loan at Belgian outfit Union Berlin before officially arriving at the Amex.

The attacker enjoyed an impressive 2022-23 season, scoring 10 goals and registering eight assists in 41 appearances in all competitions, including seven goals and six assists in the Premier League.

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Meanwhile, he has made a strong start to this campaign, netting three times and registering four assists in 11 appearances in all competitions.

According to Mundo Deportivo, Mitoma's progress 'has not gone unnoticed' at Barcelona, with scouts for the Catalan outfit recommending him to senior figures at the club.

The report claims that the La Liga champions currently have 'other priorities' in the market, but he has now been placed on the transfer shortlist at Camp Nou due to his progress since arriving at Brighton.

A move next year is unlikely due to Barcelona's financial problems, although he could be more affordable if Brighton are unable to sign him to a new contract.

Ferran Torres, Raphinha, Joao Felix and Lamine Yamal are currently the wide options in the first-team squad at Barcelona, while Gavi is also capable of playing in an advanced area.