ESPN Exclusive: Kaoru Mitoma Commits Long-Term Future to Brighton, Snubbing Brentfordโs Big-Money Move in Favor of Fresh Deal Running to 2030
Brighton & Hove Albion have secured a significant victory in their bid to retain key talent, as star winger Kaoru Mitoma has officially turned down a substantial offer from Premier League rivals Brentford FC. The Japan international, widely regarded as one of the leagueโs most exciting attacking players, has opted to remain on the south coast, agreeing to terminate his existing agreement and sign a new five-year contract extension that will keep him at the Amex Stadium until the summer of 2030.
Brentfordโs interest in Mitoma had intensified over recent months, with sources close to negotiations revealing the London club had tabled a highly lucrative package aimed at luring the winger away from Brighton. The proposal included a significant salary increase and the promise of a central role in Brentfordโs attacking plans. Despite the tempting terms, Mitomaโs loyalty to Brighton and belief in their long-term project ultimately outweighed the financial incentives on offer.
Since joining Brighton in 2021 from Kawasaki Frontale, Mitoma has rapidly become a fan favorite. His dazzling dribbles, blistering pace, and ability to unlock stubborn defenses have made him one of the Seagullsโ most dangerous weapons. In the past two seasons, his contributions have been pivotal to Brightonโs success, including their historic qualification for European competition.
The new deal not only secures Mitomaโs services for the foreseeable future but also sends a strong message about Brightonโs ambitions. Under manager Roberto De Zerbi, the club has developed a reputation for progressive football and astute player development. Retaining a player of Mitomaโs caliber reinforces their intention to compete at the highest level, both domestically and on the European stage.
Mitomaโs decision is also a testament to the culture at Brighton, where he has often spoken about feeling valued and supported. In interviews, he has praised the clubโs infrastructure, the close-knit squad, and the connection with the fans. These factors, insiders say, were decisive in swaying him to remain despite Brentfordโs aggressive pursuit.
Fans of the Seagulls have reacted to the news with unbridled enthusiasm. Social media platforms were flooded with celebratory posts, many hailing the announcement as โthe best signing of the summer.โ For them, Mitoma represents more than just a top performer on the pitchโheโs a symbol of Brightonโs rise and their growing reputation as a club capable of holding on to elite talent in the face of competition.
Speaking about the new contract, De Zerbi described Mitoma as โa special player with the mentality of a champion,โ adding that his influence both in games and in training sessions sets the standard for the rest of the squad.
By committing his future to Brighton until 2030, Kaoru Mitoma has made it clear he sees the Amex Stadium as the stage for the prime years of his career. In doing so, he has not only rejected Brentfordโs advances but also reaffirmed his place at the heart of Brightonโs ambitious journey toward sustained Premier League and European success.