Kaoru Mitoma Set to Undergo Medical with Nottingham Forest in Potential Summer Switch
In what could be one of the most eye-catching signings of the summer transfer window, Brighton & Hove Albion winger Kaoru Mitoma is reportedly on the verge of completing a move to Nottingham Forest. The Japanese international is expected to undergo a medical with Forest in the coming days, with sources close to both clubs suggesting that a deal is well advanced.
This surprise development comes after a period of speculation surrounding Mitoma’s future, with several Premier League and European clubs expressing interest in the electrifying winger. However, it now appears that Nottingham Forest have stolen a march on the competition as they aim to strengthen their attacking ranks ahead of the 2025/26 season.
A Rising Star in the Premier League
Mitoma joined Brighton in 2021 from Kawasaki Frontale, and after a loan spell at Belgian side Union SG, he quickly made an impact upon his return to the Seagulls. The 27-year-old became one of the Premier League’s most exciting wingers, dazzling fans with his direct dribbling, pace, and creative flair.
During the 2022/23 season, Mitoma registered seven goals and six assists, playing a key role in Brighton’s historic qualification for European football. His form dipped slightly due to injuries in the 2023/24 campaign, but he remained a dangerous outlet and a key member of the squad under Roberto De Zerbi and, later, new manager Fabian Hürzeler.
Despite Brighton’s efforts to keep him, the club’s model of sustainable development through player trading appears to have opened the door for Mitoma’s departure. Nottingham Forest, ambitious under new ownership and managerial leadership, are ready to give Mitoma a central role in their project.
Forest’s Ambitious Project
Nottingham Forest narrowly escaped relegation last season and are now looking to retool and rise up the Premier League table. With a revamped football structure and a clear desire to build a more dynamic, attacking team, Forest view Mitoma as a statement signing.
Forest manager Nuno EspĂrito Santo is said to be a strong admirer of Mitoma’s versatility and explosiveness on the flank. The team has lacked a consistent wide threat in recent seasons, and Mitoma could offer both creativity and goal-scoring potential from the left wing, where he thrives.
Forest are also hoping to capitalize on Mitoma’s global profile, particularly in Asia, to enhance the club’s international reach and marketing value. His arrival would signal an intent not just to survive in the Premier League but to compete and grow on multiple fronts.
Deal Details and Medical
The proposed transfer is believed to be worth in the region of £35–40 million, making Mitoma one of Forest’s most expensive signings ever. Negotiations have progressed rapidly over the past week, with Brighton willing to cash in as Mitoma enters the final two years of his contract.
Mitoma is expected to arrive in Nottingham within the next 48 hours to undergo his medical and complete personal terms. If all goes according to plan, Forest could officially announce the transfer early next week.
A Risk Worth Taking?
While Mitoma’s quality is unquestioned, some pundits have raised eyebrows at his potential move to a team that only recently battled relegation. However, Forest are confident that their long-term vision and tactical setup under Nuno will give the Japanese star a platform to shine.
Mitoma’s style of play—based on quick acceleration, sharp changes of direction, and intelligent movement—could suit Forest’s counter-attacking approach. If fully fit and integrated into the system, he could quickly become one of the team’s talismans.
From Mitoma’s perspective, the move offers an opportunity to take on a new challenge, be a central figure in a growing club, and possibly reestablish himself as one of the Premier League’s most feared wingers.
What This Means for Brighton
For Brighton, Mitoma’s departure is another chapter in their successful player development and transfer policy. The Seagulls have consistently sold top talent at a profit—such as Alexis Mac Allister, Moisés Caicedo, and Marc Cucurella—while continuing to rebuild effectively.
They will now likely turn to their well-scouted talent pool to fill the void, potentially giving more opportunities to rising stars or dipping back into the transfer market.
Conclusion
Kaoru Mitoma’s anticipated move to Nottingham Forest marks a significant moment for both player and club. For Forest, it represents bold ambition and a clear step forward in their bid to evolve from relegation battlers into a competitive Premier League side. For Mitoma, it is a fresh challenge that could reignite his Premier League career and expand his influence both on and off the pitch.
With a medical set for the coming days, the official announcement could soon confirm Mitoma as Forest’s marquee summer signing—a move that could shift the landscape of the Premier League’s mid-table battle in the upcoming season.