Arsenal's Vinicius Junior pursuit ends in failure
talkSPORT Football reports that Arsenal have been tipped to try and sign Brighton star Kaoru Mitoma after missing out on Vinicius Junior. The Gunners saw their hopes of signing Real Madrid superstar Vinicius end on Thursday, as it was announced he had signed a new six-year deal with the Spanish giants.
Mitoma's potential move to Arsenal
Mitoma has earned a strong reputation since joining the Seagulls in 2021, and has just a year left on his current contract at the Amex, meaning he could likely be bought for a cut price. The Japanese star marked his debut season in English football in the 2022/23 campaign by scoring seven league goals, helping the Seagulls to a best-ever sixth-place finish and sealing Europa League football.
Mitoma's past performances and injuries
Mitoma struggled for fitness in the 2025/26 campaign, and ultimately missed out on Japan's World Cup squad after suffering a hamstring injury against Wolves in May. However, he has carved out a strong reputation over the last four years in the Premier League with Brighton. His best-scoring season came in 2024/25, where he netted 10 times in the Premier League, before turning down interest from European giants Bayern Munich in the subsequent transfer window.
Alternative options for Arsenal
Rashford's future remains unclear as he prepares to return to Manchester United after Barcelona chose not sign him permanently. However, talkSPORT pundit Tony Cascarino was less sold on Arsenal snapping him up, admitting his up-and-down career raises questions marks over his suitability.