Manchester United are expected to undergo another squad rebuild—this time under head coach Ruben Amorim—after a disastrous season.
The Red Devils are currently languishing 13th in the Premier League table and eliminated from both domestic cup competitions. They have a chance to qualify for the Champions League by winning the Europa League. Regardless of what happens during the business end of the campaign, INEOS have started working behind the scenes—identifying targets who will fit into Ruben Amorim’s system.
Amid the 20-time English champions’ search for new players, former Sunderland manager Gus Poyet has advised INEOS to sign Brighton and Hove Albion winger Kaoru Mitoma. The K-League outfit Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors manager has heaped praise on the Japanese international and feels he is good enough to play for Manchester United.
“In terms of quality, he’s [Mitoma] good enough for Manchester United,” Poyet was quoted by Sussex World.
“The question is, can he take the next step and perform at an even higher level, as a club like United demands?
“He’s a top player and I hope he does because he’s so important to Brighton. I love watching him play.”
Kaoru Mitoma, 27, has become one of the most exciting wingers in the Premier League since arriving at Brighton from J League side Kawasaki Frontale in 2021. He has made 100 appearances for the Seagulls, netting 21 goals and supplying 15 assists.
The tricky wide-man from Oita has been enjoying a strong season under Fabian Hurzeler, with seven goals and three assists already under his banner in the league including a goal and an assist apiece in Brighton’s 3-1 win over Man United at Old Trafford in January.
Man United need assistance in the final third
Predominantly a left-winger, Mitoma can also operate on the opposite flank as a No.10. This would see him add a versatile option to Amorim’s forward line as he has played in a variety of positions for Brighton, including on both wings, left midfielder and even through the middle.
In Amorim’s 3-4-3 system, one would expect the Japanese international to either fill one of the roles behind the main striker or maybe even as a wing-back as the likes of Amad Diallo and Alejandro Garnacho have been tasked to operate. The 27-year-old would undoubtedly enhance the Portuguese boss’ first XI whilst adding much-needed quality depth to the roster.
Premier League proven and at the peak of his powers, a move to United would help Mitoma get global recognition and allow him to unlock his true potential under an astute tactician like Amorim. Given he has a contract at the Amex Stadium until 2027, Brighton are expected to ask a premium from the Red Devils for their star winger.
I am Rohan Sengupta from one of the busiest cities in India, Mumbai. A Journalism graduate with a keen interest in sports, football is something I simply cannot live without and writing, discussing and analyzing the game is what I do 24*7.
