Arsenal leading the race to sign "extraordinary" talent who ripped Liverpool apart this season

Arsenal want to sign Brighton star Kaoru Mitoma this summer and are leading the race for the Japanese winger's signature according to recent reports.

The 25-year-old has made 15 league appearances for the Seagulls this season and scored five goals in that time.

He's got a very unique story compared to most wingers in the Premier League, at 19 he delayed signing a professional contract in Japan so that he could go to university.

After completing his studies and writing his thesis on dribbling, he eventually signed for Kawasaki Frontale before moving to Brighton in 2021 for just £2.7m.

Now according to journalist Fabrizio Romano, as reported in the Sun, the Gunners are interested in bringing the winger to the club to add depth to their flanks.

His contract on the south coast runs until 2025 and Brighton are desperate to keep hold of him, but if Arsenal show an interest then the player is likely to want to leave.

"Extraordinary to watch"

The Japanese international has been a huge player for Brighton and has already matched his goal tally for last season when he was on loan at Belgian side Royale Union Saint-Gilloise.

Given the difference in difficulty playing in the Premier League, it's a surprise to see that he's adapted so well.

He starred in the Seagulls' recent 3-0 league victory over Liverpool before scoring a late stoppage time winner to knock the Reds out of the FA Cup at the end of last month.

Mitoma is "extraordinary to watch" according to New York Times journalist Rory Smith, as reported by BBC Sport, and if he continues to perform then he will have earnt a big move.

He's not the only Brighton player that Arsenal have shown interest in with Mikel Arteta's side having several bids for midfielder Moises Caicedo rejected in January.

However, they did manage to complete the purchase of Leandro Trossard from the south coast club for £2.7m.

The Gunners seem to be picking off Brighton's best players and it looks like Mitoma is next on the list.