Barcelona now want to sign Kaoru Mitoma from Brighton – after Manchester City were linked with a move.
Manchester City eventually signed Jeremy Doku from Rennes.
Now – however – if Manchester City still hold any desire to sign Mitoma, competition from Barcelona should be expected.
Mundo Deportivo believe the Brighton No.22 has “seduced” coaches at the Camp Nou, who believe he would be the ideal option to bolster Xavi’s weak left flank.
The right wing is strong with Raphinha, Lamine Yamal and Ferran Torres available, but Barcelona would like a new option for the left after loaning Ansu Fati to Brighton.
Mitoma’s contract will only have 12 months remaining at the end of the current campaign, so he represents an interesting market opportunity for clubs in the summer of 2024.
There were question marks about Mitoma’s suitability as a Mahrez replacement anyway, as the pair operate on different flanks – the Algerian is famed for cutting inside from the right on his stronger left foot.
Contrastingly, Mitoma is well known for coming inside from the left wing on his right foot.
Ultimately – if there is any interest still coming from Manchester City – we think it would be strange
Guardiola already has two outstanding options for the left flank in Jack Grealish and Jeremy Doku, so it would baffle us if Manchester City chose to rival Barcelona for Mitoma in 2024.
The likes of Phil Foden and Julian Alvarez can also operate in that area.
Nevertheless, be sure to keep an eye on the £20,000-a-week man’s situation, as anything could happen.
