AliousKaoru Mitoma’s stunning goal against Chelsea at the Amex Stadium last Friday was nothing short of spectacular. I’ve probably spent too much time rewatching it online this week, but it’s hard to resist. Without a doubt, it ranks among the best goals I’ve ever witnessed in person, and the widespread admiration it received was well deserved.
Former players and pundits were quick to praise Mitoma’s brilliance. Jamie Carragher and Gary Neville likened it to moments from Dennis Bergkamp and Lionel Messi, while Paul Merson went as far as calling it “one of the greatest in Premier League history.” Danny Welbeck’s reaction was perhaps the most fitting—simply rushing over to Mitoma and shouting, “Wow!”
The timing of this goal is especially intriguing given that less than two weeks earlier, Brighton had rejected a substantial offer from Saudi club Al-Nassr. The reported bid varied widely, with figures ranging from £55 million to £90 million. This raises the inevitable question: just how much is Kaoru Mitoma worth now?
Brighton’s acquisition of Mitoma from Kawasaki Frontale for a mere £2.5 million in 2021 looks like a masterstroke. After spending a season on loan at Union SG in Belgium, he returned to Brighton, where the club had so much faith in him that they allowed Leandro Trossard to join Arsenal for £30 million. Mitoma was ready to shine, and he hasn’t disappointed.
His Premier League journey began under former manager Graham Potter, making his debut as a second-half substitute against Newcastle in August 2022. He quickly made an impact, registering his first assist in a 4-1 win over Chelsea and scoring his first goal—a well-timed header in a 3-2 victory over Wolves—just a week later. Since then, Mitoma has racked up 95 appearances, netting 20 goals and providing 16 assists. This season alone, he has started 22 Premier League games, scoring six times and assisting three.
Following his incredible goal against Chelsea, speculation about his future has intensified. Reports immediately surfaced linking him to Chelsea, and it’s easy to see why. Mitoma has expressed his desire to play in the Champions League, which is believed to be a major reason why he turned down a move to Saudi Arabia.
Brighton has provided him with a platform to shine, but with injuries and inconsistent form affecting the team, Champions League qualification seems unlikely. A Europa League or Conference League spot, however, remains within reach. Mitoma signed a contract extension in 2024, keeping him at the club until June 2027, and he is among the team’s highest earners.
Albion chairman Tony Bloom is known for only sanctioning sales if a player makes it clear they want to leave or if a suitable replacement is lined up—neither of which has happened yet. However, if Mitoma finishes the season strongly, interest from Europe’s elite clubs will only grow, potentially pushing his price even higher.
A valuation of £100 million doesn’t seem far-fetched when considering his performances and the commercial impact he has had, particularly in Japan. Mitoma is the complete package—an electrifying talent capable of producing breathtaking moments with ease.
For now, Brighton fans will relish watching their star player continue to dazzle. The Seagulls face Southampton this Saturday, followed by a home clash against Champions League-chasing Bournemouth on Tuesday. All eyes will be on Kaoru Mitoma.
Alious
