Why Barcelona is Eyeing Kaoru Mitoma?

The FC Barcelona is actively shaping its squad for the upcoming season, irrespective of who takes the helm following Xavi Hernandez’s announced departure. As reported by SPORT, the plan includes three reinforcements, with a focus on acquiring a pure left-wing winger.

While Savinho was initially a target, the Brazilian is set to join Manchester City. However, the club’s sporting direction has identified an alternative, a player who has caught their attention on multiple occasions.

Enter Kaoru Mitoma, a 26-year-old Japanese winger currently with Brighton. Securing his services won’t be a straightforward task, as his market value hovers around 50 million euros. Ansu Fati, who is on loan at the same club, Brighton Hove Albion, might be involved in the potential deal.

Barcelona closely monitors Mitoma as genuine specialists in dribbling, giving the game a distinctive edge, are becoming increasingly rare. The Japanese winger, known for his play on the right with his left foot, not only possesses exceptional dribbling skills but has also delved into its nuances to the extent of presenting a doctoral thesis on the subject.

Mitoma chose a unique path, rejecting a professional contract with his first team, Kawasaki Frontale, at the age of 16, to pursue a degree in Physical Education. His thesis focused on dribbling, analyzing it extensively. In his research, he recorded his training sessions with a GoPro camera mounted on his head, observing that elite dribblers never look down but straight ahead. This dedication helped him refine this skill.

In the current Premier League season, Kaoru Mitoma has successfully completed 35 dribbles, averaging 2.1 per game, and recorded 8 in the Europa League (1.33 per match). He has also contributed with 3 goals and 6 assists.

Brighton secured Mitoma’s services in 2021 for 3 million euros, loaning him to Union Saint-Gilloise for the first year, where he shone in a Belgian team that surprised many. Last season, as a ‘Seagull,’ he delivered a strong performance under De Zerbi. In October of the previous year, he extended his contract with Brighton until 2027.