Brighton and Hove Albion are taking proactive measures to retain their rising star, Kaoru Mitoma, amid interest from Premier League leaders Arsenal.

BRIGHTON, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 04: Kaoru Mitoma of Brighton & Hove Albion inspects the pitch prior to the Premier League match between Brighton & Hove Albion and AFC Bournemouth at American Express Community Stadium on February 04, 2023 in Brighton, England. (Photo by Bryn Lennon/Getty Images)
BRIGHTON, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 04: Kaoru Mitoma of Brighton & Hove Albion inspects the pitch prior to the Premier League match between Brighton & Hove Albion and AFC Bournemouth at American Express Community Stadium on February 04, 2023 in Brighton, England. (Photo by Bryn Lennon/Getty Images)

The 25-year-old Japanese international has been a revelation for the Seagulls this season, attracting attention from top clubs, including Arsenal.

In response, Brighton manager Roberto De Zerbi and the club’s board have initiated discussions with Mitoma over a new long-term contract at the Amex Stadium.

According to Football Insider sources, Brighton has proposed a “double-your-money” deal to Mitoma, which would see his current weekly wage of £20,000 increase to £40,000.

Arsenal have previously signed Ben White and Leandro Trossard from the Seagulls, and they also pursued midfielder Moises Caicedo in January. However, Brighton rejected a £70 million offer for the Ecuadorian and secured him with a new contract.

Now, the Seagulls’ focus has shifted to ensuring Mitoma’s future at the club.

Arsenal are reportedly considering a “huge” summer bid for Caicedo despite his new deal, intensifying the importance of Brighton securing Mitoma’s future.

The Japanese winger has contributed eight goals and six assists in 26 appearances this season, including four goal involvements in his last three Premier League matches.

Mitoma joined Brighton in 2021 from Japanese side Kawasaki Frontale and was subsequently loaned to Union SG before being given an opportunity to shine in England.

With the likes of Manchester City, Bayern Munich, and Real Madrid also expressing interest in Mitoma, Brighton is determined to keep him on the south coast for the foreseeable future.

Offering a lucrative new deal is a strategic move to ward off potential suitors, including Arsenal, and solidify Mitoma’s position as a key player for the Seagulls.