Arsenal Add Premier League “Special Talent” To Summer Shortlist As Rodrygo Alternative

Arsenal have reportedly added Brighton winger Kaoru Mitoma to their shortlist this summer as they aim to strengthen in attack. 

The Gunners finished the season second in the league, 10 points behind champions Liverpool, after they won 2-1 against Southampton on the final day of the season at the weekend.

Mikel Arteta has already spoken about having a ‘big’ summer transfer window, as he aims to build a squad that is capable of winning the Premier League title next season after three second-place finishes in a row.

Ahead of the window, Arsenal have been linked to signing Real Madrid star Rodrygo as they are likely to sign a winger. The Madrid winger has also been linked to Chelsea, and so reports have now suggested that Arsenal have added a Premier League star to their shortlist as an alternative.

Arsenal add Mitoma to shortlist

According to a report by Sky Germany, Arsenal have shortlisted Brighton winger Kaoru Mitoma for a summer transfer, he is also reportedly a target for Bayern Munich.

The Japanese international has made 41 appearances for the Seagulls this season, scoring 11 goals and providing four assists. The 28-year-old is under contract until June 2027, meaning that Brighton could be looking to cash in on him over the next two or three transfer windows.

The report says that Arsenal’s dream winger target remains Real Madrid’s Rodrygo, however, Mitoma is seen as an alternative ahead of the transfer window.

Former Arsenal and Man United striker Danny Welbeck plays with Mitoma at Brighton, he has been full of praise for the 28-year-old. Welbeck said in a post-match press conference earlier in the season: “He is a special talent and we all know the ability he’s got. In one v ones there’s not many better in the Premier League.”

Mitoma has previously been linked to joining Liverpool, but it seems that the Reds are currently focussed on trying to land Bayer Leverkusen star Florian Wirtz.

Click here to see four players that Mikel Arteta has already confirmed will leave Arsenal this summer.