Brighton open to Kaoru Mitoma sale at right time amid Liverpool transfer interest

Brighton & Hove Albion are prepared to part ways with star winger Kaoru Mitoma, but only when the timing and terms suit the club’s model, according to deputy chairman and CEO Paul Barber.
Mitoma has emerged as a key target for Liverpool, with the Reds expected to make a formal approach in the summer transfer window. The 27-year-old has been instrumental for Brighton this season, contributing eight goals and three assists in all competitions before a recent heel injury kept him sidelined. Brighton are well known for commanding significant transfer fees for their top performers, having already sold players like Moises Caicedo, Alexis Mac Allister, Ben White, and Marc Cucurella for massive profits. While Mitoma is under contract until 2027, speculation around his future continues to grow.

Brighton Not Ruling Out a Summer Sale
Speaking to the BBC, Barber acknowledged the growing interest in players like Mitoma and Carlos Baleba, while reiterating that the club remains committed to selling only under the right conditions.
“We know that our best players are always going to be sought after by bigger clubs,” said Barber.
“We’d love to keep our best players for as long as we can, but part of our model is being prepared to sell at the right time.” He added that while a summer sale isn’t guaranteed, it’s “likely to happen” at some point — a comment that could fuel further interest from Liverpool and other top European clubs.

Liverpool Ready to Capitalize
Liverpool are reportedly monitoring Mitoma closely, with his desire to play Champions League football seen as a major factor in any potential deal. The Japanese winger turned down a lucrative approach from Al Nassr in January, indicating his ambition lies in competing at the top level in Europe.
Brighton rejected that offer and typically avoid major January sales, but this summer may present a different scenario. Reports suggest the Seagulls could demand £60–70 million, though a competitive bidding war could push the price higher.

Kaoru Mitoma Brighton Stats by Season

Mitoma continues to be one of the Premier League’s most effective wide players, and Brighton’s negotiating position — with two years left on his deal and a proven track record of maximizing value — means any club looking to sign him will need to pay a premium.