According to rumors, Brighton star Kaoru Mitoma is a target for Manchester City. The Japanese international had a strong previous campaign on the south coast, attracting much attention to his talents.

However, with Chelsea willing to get the Ecuadorian, the Seagulls might not be too keen on losing him and Moisés Caicedo before the transfer window shuts.

After Riyad Mahrez’s £30 million move to Saudi Arabian club Al-Ahli, City manager Guardiola wants to sign a winger as his replacement.

The Spaniard is a huge fan of Mitoma, who can play on either wing and singled him out for praise during City’s pre-season trip.

Mitoma was the Premier League’s breakout sensation last season, dazzling with his rapid pace and cutting edge in the attacking third. The Japanese international had ten goals and eight assists during the season.

The Sun claims Mitoma has been identified as a ‘possible alternative’ for Mahrez, although the Seagulls are reluctant to sell him for less than £50m. As City learned in their fruitless pursuit of Marc Cucurella last summer, Brighton are renowned for being difficult negotiators.

Ahead of their friendly against Yokohama F Marinos, Guardiola was asked about the quality of the Asian footballer.

“Well I would say the impact of [Kaoru] Mitoma on the Premier League has been incredible,” he told reporters. He is in the right place with the right manager and his last season was extraordinary.

Brighton sold Alexis MacAllister to Liverpool for £35 million this summer.

Chelsea is still trying to get Moises Caicedo, but the Seagulls turned down their third offer earlier this week.

Will Mitoma move to Manchester City this summer?