Report: Liverpool interested in move for Brighton forward

Tottenham and Liverpool are among several clubs closely monitoring the situation surrounding Brighton winger Kaoru Mitoma as his current contract nears its end. Mitoma, a 29-year-old Japan international, is entering the final season of his Brighton deal, which runs until June 2027. While there had been hopes earlier in the year for fresh terms to be agreed, no meaningful breakthrough has occurred.

Brighton faces a dilemma in managing Mitoma's contract position. They can either protect value in the market or risk losing the player for next to nothing. The 29-year-old Brighton forward signed a four-year extension in October 2023, earning around £80,000 a week, placing him among the stronger earners at the club. However, the situation has changed as interest from other clubs, including Tottenham and Liverpool, has emerged.

Tottenham's interest is partially motivated by their potential reunion with Roberto De Zerbi, who previously worked together at Brighton. The club is actively reshaping its squad under De Zerbi, and Mitoma could be a practical addition if the price is right and he can make an immediate impact in the second half of the campaign. Additionally, Tottenham is linked to further forward options from Asia, suggesting they are scouting the market strategically.

For Liverpool, the interest in Mitoma is not new, as the club has admired his skills since his move from Kawasaki Frontale to Brighton. With his contract nearing its end, Liverpool finds the situation even more appealing. Mitoma is a proven Premier League winger with high-level one-versus-one abilities, and he may become available below the normal market rate. However, Liverpool's interest is weighed against factors such as his age, wages, fitness, and the club's need in the squad.

Brighton's decision-making is further complicated by Mitoma's recovery from a hamstring injury sustained in May. The injury ended his 2025-26 season and also ruled him out of the World Cup, leaving him on a cautious rehabilitation program. Until Mitoma is back on the pitch and demonstrating his usual sharpness, the urgency for a January transfer may be reduced.

This opens the possibility of multiple outcomes, such as Brighton finding a buyer prepared to negotiate early or clubs deciding to wait for a free transfer in 2027. Other top European clubs, including Bayern Munich, have also shown interest in Mitoma.

In conclusion, Brighton is running out of time to regain control of the situation, while clubs like Tottenham and Liverpool are well-positioned to observe, assess, and strike if the conditions become favorable. From a Liverpool perspective, the situation presents a mix of intrigue and caution. While Mitoma is a talented player with proven Premier League experience, Liverpool must carefully consider his age, fitness, and the club's long-term needs before making a move.