Brighton & Hove Albion have rejected a substantial offer from Saudi Arabia for Kaoru Mitoma, insisting the player is not for sale.

Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr submitted a £60m bid for the 27-year-old Japanese winger, but Brighton swiftly dismissed the approach. Mitoma is content at the Amex Stadium, has no desire to leave, and the club remains firm in their stance that he is not available for transfer.

Al-Nassr have already agreed a £70m deal for Aston Villa striker Jhon Durán and viewed Mitoma as the ideal addition to strengthen their attacking options. However, Mitoma remains under contract until June 2027 and is a key part of Fabian Hürzeler’s long-term plans.

The Japan international has registered five goals and three assists in 23 Premier League appearances this season and is widely regarded as one of the most exciting left-wingers in the division.

It remains to be seen whether Al-Nassr will return with an improved offer before the Saudi Pro League transfer window closes on Friday. Cristiano Ronaldo’s side have ambitious plans and have already secured a marquee signing in Durán.

Despite interest from several Premier League clubs, the 21-year-old Colombian is set to become the latest high-profile player to move to the Middle East after undergoing a medical in London on Thursday.

Durán was named among the substitutes for Aston Villa’s crucial Champions League victory over Celtic on Wednesday night, though reports emerged shortly before kick-off indicating that he was on the verge of a move to Saudi Arabia following weeks of speculation.

Meanwhile, news surfaced of a surprise bid from Arsenal for Ollie Watkins ahead of the match. Villa swiftly rejected the offer and were reportedly furious with its timing.

Arsenal may yet sign a forward before the January transfer window closes on Monday night, though a move for Watkins now appears unlikely, especially with Durán’s departure to Al-Nassr nearing completion.

Durán is considered a statement signing for the Saudi Pro League, which is eager to establish itself as a destination for young and developing talent rather than a final stop for ageing stars in the twilight of their careers.