Chelsea, having already signed Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall ahead of Brighton earlier in the transfer window, is now reportedly interested in one of Brighton’s top assets, Kaoru Mitoma.
Transfer reporter Ben Jacobs indicates that the Blues “admire” the left winger, which is not surprising given that many of Chelsea’s current executives previously worked at Brighton.
Chelsea’s interest in Mitoma fits their strategy of targeting young, talented left-sided attackers. Alongside Mitoma, Chelsea is also looking at Leeds United’s Crysencio Summerville, 19-year-old Club Brugge winger Antonio Nusa, and Ukraine’s rising star Georgiy Sudakov. Among these, Mitoma stands out as the most accomplished and potentially the most expensive.
Mitoma, a key player in the Premier League, recently signed a contract extending his stay at Brighton until 2027. Despite a less impressive season last year, Brighton’s management, led by Tony Bloom, would likely demand a transfer fee of at least £60-70 million for Mitoma.
Chelsea is familiar with Brighton’s high demands, having spent over £200 million on Brighton players since 2022, including a record £115 million on Moises Caicedo.
At 27, Mitoma is in his prime and would bring immediate quality to Chelsea’s squad. In contrast, Summerville, Nusa, and Sudakov, all under 23, would be less costly but also less proven in the Premier League. Chelsea must decide whether they want an established player like Mitoma, who can deliver instant results, or if they prefer investing in the potential of younger talents.
The decision hinges on Chelsea’s vision for their future lineup and their willingness to meet Brighton’s valuation. Either choice reflects a strategic approach to bolstering their attacking options for the upcoming seasons.
