Arsenal transfer news: Kaoru Mitoma really wanted to play against Takehiro Tomiyasu

By Ben Evans

Arsenal’s search for an attacking recruit in January looks set to continue after missing out on Mykhaylo Mudyrk.

The Ukrainian appeared to be on his way to The Emirates before Chelsea hijacked the deal.

Now, a whole host of new names have been linked with a move to The Emirates, and one of those players has spoken to Sussex Live.

Barcelona pair Raphinha and Ferran Torres have both been linked with moves in the past few days.

The former was an Arsenal target in the summer, but he instead chose to move to the La Liga side instead.

Another player who has lit up the Premier League in recent weeks that Arsenal are now keen on is Kaoru Mitoma.

The Brighton forward has been one of the most exciting new additions to the league this season.

Signed by the Seagulls from Kawasaki Frontale in 2021, he then spent a year on loan in Belgium.

The Japanese international spoke to Sussex Live back in November before his Brighton side faced Arsenal.

Mitoma explained at the time how excited he was to be up against his Arsenal compatriot Takehiro Tomiyasu.

Now, the pair could end up playing together at The Emirates.

Mitoma was excited to face Arsenal star Tomiyasu

Speaking ahead of the clash, Mitoma said: “Tomiyasu has been playing for Arsenal since last season.

“I’ve been inspired by his performances and it’s always been my desire to play at this level too.

“So, it would be great for people back home in Japan to see a potential matchup between us.

“I would like that to be enjoyable, and personally, I would love to win those duels.”

The Carabao Cup match ended in a 3-1 win for the Seagulls, with Mitoma scoring Brighton’s second goal.

Tomiyasu was missing from the squad due to injury, but Mitoma certainly impressed many Arsenal fans with his performance.

The tricky winger would be an exciting option for Mikel Arteta to play on either wing.

An expert in one-on-one situations and a hard worker out of possession, he certainly fits the Arsenal mould.

He’s scored three goals and provided just one assist in the league this season.

Mitoma is thriving under Roberto De Zerbi, and the Italian manager will be hoping he doesn’t lose the 25-year-old this month.