Man City ‘chasing’ Kaoru Mitoma transfer to replace Riyad Mahrez

Manchester City have reportedly earmarked Brighton star Kaoru Mitoma as a candidate to replace Riyad Mahrez . City boss Pep Guardiola is in the market for a new right-winger after the Algerian completed a £30million move to Saudi Pro League side Al-Ahli. Brighton manager Roberto De Zerbi was always likely to be in for a tough summer after leading his side to sixth place in the Premier League last season. The Italian’s fears have materialised, with Alexis Mac Allister snapped up by Liverpool and Moises Caicedo attracting strong interest from Chelsea. And he could now have a fight on his hands to keep hold of Mitoma. According to The Daily Star , the Japanese international’s stellar 2022/23 campaign caught the eye of Guardiola. The Sky Blues boss reportedly finds Mitoma a ‘very interesting’ prospect as he seeks out new blood to bolster his wide options at the Etihad Stadium. Pep Guardiola is on the hunt for a new winger after Riyad Mahrez’s departure (Image: GETTY) The 26-year-old managed seven goals and five assists in the Premier League last season after spending the previous campaign on loan at Belgian outfit Union Saint-Gilloise. Having been one of the division’s liveliest wingers last term, Mitoma could soon be the subject of a £50million-plus bid from City. Guardiola and co have plenty of pulling power in the market off the back of their remarkable treble triumph. Kaoru Mitoma excelled for Brighton last season (Image: Getty) Croatian international Gvardiol – signed for £77m – is viewed as one of the world’s finest defenders. “I have always dreamed of one day playing in England and to be doing so now with Manchester City – after the season they have just had – is a real honour for me,” he told club media. “Anyone who saw Manchester City play last season knows they are the best team in the world. To win the treble says everything you need to know about the quality this team has. To be joining City is something very special for me and my family.”