'Arsenal Misses Vinicius,' Eyes Japan's Mitoma... English Legend Calls Him "Perfectly Fearless, Sign Him Without Hesitation"

*This content was translated by AI.

'Defending champions' Arsenal in England's Premier League (EPL) are reportedly considering Kaoru Mitoma of Brighton as a backup option after failing to sign Vinicius Junior of Real Madrid.

According to UK outlet TalkSPORT on the 10th, Arsenal had targeted Vinicius for acquisition this summer but reversed its plans when he signed a six-year contract extension. Having already invested £75 million (approximately 143.5 billion won) to bring Bruno Guimarães from Newcastle, Arsenal is now seeking a new option for the left-sided attacking role vacated by Leandro Trossard, with Mitoma emerging as a leading candidate.

Tony Cascarino, who previously played for Chelsea and Marseille, strongly recommended Mitoma's move to Arsenal via TalkSPORT. "If Mitoma were slightly younger and had fewer injury concerns, he would have been the top priority for serious consideration," Cascarino stated. "Although he struggled last season due to injuries, managing only three league goals, when at his best, Mitoma is an exceptionally formidable player."

He continued, "He is a dangerous winger who constantly challenges opponents with aggressive play. Arsenal's left-wing squad depth is thin and requires backup resources; if I were in charge, I would sign him immediately."

However, Mitoma's current physical condition remains a critical variable. Undergoing left hamstring surgery in May, he was omitted from Japan's recent CONCACAF Nations League squad. Additionally, complications from a traffic accident during the off-season prevented him from joining Brighton's pre-season camp in Australia. Although he returned to team training on the 5th, his full competitive return is not expected until late September or early October.

Brighton manager Fabian Hürzeler emphasized in media interviews: "Mitoma requires significant trust and support. While we strive to provide this, the player must also maintain unwavering confidence in his own physical condition." He stressed that regaining peak fitness is the immediate priority.

Mitoma's current contract with Brighton runs until June next year. Local analysts suggest an immediate summer transfer is unlikely due to his absence from pre-season and lingering injury effects, but interest from major clubs in Mitoma, who has demonstrated explosive potential on the EPL stage, is expected to persist.

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*This content was translated by AI.