Brighton Winger Poised for Permanent Departure

As Brighton & Hove Albion prepare for yet another ambitious campaign in the Premier League, the club’s summer rebuild continues to gather momentum. Among the many strategic decisions being taken behind the scenes at the Amex Stadium, one of the most prominent developments centers on a key figure from the club’s wing department. Reports emerging from the south coast and multiple sources in Europe now confirm that a Brighton winger is poised for a permanent departure in the coming days — marking the end of an era and the beginning of a new chapter.

While Brighton have become known for their dynamic and forward-thinking recruitment model, this move has stirred strong reactions from fans, analysts, and club insiders alike. The player — whose identity has not yet been formally confirmed in the club’s outgoing list but is widely believed to be Kaoru Mitoma, Solly March, or possibly Jeremy Sarmiento — is now set to leave permanently, with advanced talks ongoing with suitors from both the Premier League and abroad.

In this comprehensive report, we’ll unpack the context surrounding the move, analyze the player’s impact at Brighton, evaluate the reasons behind the decision, profile the likely destination clubs, and assess what this transfer means for Roberto De Zerbi’s squad and Brighton’s long-term ambitions.

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Brighton’s Rise and the Role of the Winger

Since their promotion to the Premier League in 2017, Brighton have undergone a footballing transformation. From scrappy survival specialists to top-ten contenders and European qualifiers, the Seagulls are now synonymous with attacking verve, smart recruitment, and forward-thinking coaching.

The club’s reliance on effective wide players has been a hallmark of their tactical evolution — particularly under Graham Potter and later Roberto De Zerbi. In the last two seasons, the flanks have provided both width and creativity. Whether through the unpredictable flair of Kaoru Mitoma, the work ethic and reliability of Solly March, or the raw promise of Julio Enciso and Simon Adingra, Brighton’s wings have driven much of their attacking success.

Yet with evolution comes change. As Brighton look to balance their squad, comply with Financial Fair Play, and prepare for a more congested fixture calendar (especially if they qualify for European football again), difficult decisions must be made. And this summer, that means letting go of one of their trusted wide players — permanently.

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The Identity of the Winger: Who’s Most Likely to Depart?

While Brighton have several options in the wide areas, three names have been most closely linked with a move away from the Amex Stadium:

1. Kaoru Mitoma

Arguably the most high-profile name in this equation, the Japanese international has dazzled Premier League fans with his dribbling, pace, and ability to beat defenders one-on-one. However, Mitoma has endured a stop-start 2023/24 season due to injury setbacks and fatigue.

Multiple reports in Europe suggest that Bundesliga and Serie A giants have expressed interest, while Manchester United and Aston Villa have also monitored the 27-year-old. If Brighton are open to cashing in on a big asset, Mitoma could command a fee in the region of £40–50 million — making him a likely candidate for a lucrative exit.

2. Jeremy Sarmiento

The Ecuadorian winger spent much of the 2023/24 season on loan at Ipswich Town, where he impressed with his direct running and flair. At 22, Sarmiento is at a crossroads in his career. Brighton rate him highly but may not see a clear pathway into the starting XI with players like Adingra, Buonanotte, and Enciso ahead of him.

Clubs in La Liga and Ligue 1 are said to be in advanced talks, and a permanent deal with a buy-back clause could suit all parties.

3. Solly March

A loyal servant to the club, March’s long-term injury ruled him out for most of the 2023/24 campaign. Now in his 30s, with his contract reportedly winding down, March could be the subject of interest from promoted sides or teams in need of Premier League experience.

Although his departure would be emotional, it may be seen as part of Brighton’s ongoing regeneration process.

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Behind the Decision: Why Brighton Are Letting Go

The decision to sanction a permanent departure isn’t taken lightly — especially for a player who has contributed to the club’s rise. However, several factors have converged to make this move necessary and perhaps even strategic.

1. Squad Depth and Emerging Talents

Brighton have invested heavily in young, versatile attackers. Simon Adingra, Julio Enciso, and Facundo Buonanotte are all viewed as future stars. Additionally, Carlos Baleba and new signings like Valentin Barco can operate in wider roles, giving De Zerbi plenty of flexibility.

In short, Brighton’s wing options are well stocked, making an exit for one winger more palatable.

2. Financial Sustainability

Brighton have become experts in selling at peak value — exemplified by the exits of Marc Cucurella, Alexis Mac Allister, Moisés Caicedo, and Yves Bissouma. Letting a winger leave now, especially if it’s Mitoma or Sarmiento, allows Brighton to generate significant revenue to reinvest across the squad.

This aligns with owner Tony Bloom’s long-term model, which prizes high-value exits and youth development over holding onto stars at all costs.

3. Player Development

For younger players like Sarmiento, the lack of guaranteed minutes in an increasingly competitive Brighton squad may hinder development. A permanent move with performance-based incentives or a buy-back clause allows the club to benefit financially and retain future control.

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Potential Destinations: Who’s in the Race?

Depending on the player in question, a range of clubs are currently circling. Let’s explore the most likely scenarios.

If Kaoru Mitoma Leaves:

• Manchester United
  United are looking to revamp their flanks, with Jadon Sancho’s future uncertain. Mitoma offers elite one-on-one ability and tactical discipline. Erik ten Hag is said to be a fan.
• Napoli
  The Serie A side may lose Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and view Mitoma as a stylistic replacement. Italian clubs admire his balance and intelligence on the ball.
• Bayern Leverkusen
  Xabi Alonso’s high-flying side want to add wide depth for Champions League football. Mitoma fits their counter-attacking style perfectly.

If Jeremy Sarmiento Leaves:

• Girona (Spain)
  The City Football Group club has scouted Sarmiento since his time with England U21s. Their emphasis on attacking football and youth development makes them an ideal fit.
• Olympique Lyonnais
  Lyon want to rebuild around young, dynamic players and see Sarmiento as a low-risk, high-reward investment.
• Feyenoord
  The Dutch giants are eyeing reinforcements with European football ahead. Sarmiento’s flair could shine in the Eredivisie.

If Solly March Leaves:

• Leicester City
  Recently promoted, the Foxes want Premier League-ready experience. March’s versatility would be a big asset for Enzo Maresca’s squad.
• Sheffield United or Leeds United
  Both clubs need creativity and crossing from wide areas. March’s professionalism and consistency appeal to their management.

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The Fans’ Perspective: Loyalty vs Evolution

For Brighton fans, the looming departure of a key winger brings mixed emotions. Many still recall the raw version of Mitoma tearing through defenses, or the loyalty and tireless running of March during the promotion years. Sarmiento, while less proven, has been viewed as a breakout star of the future.

On social media and fan forums, reactions have ranged from nostalgic sadness to pragmatic acceptance.

“We knew someone would have to go,” one fan posted on North Stand Chat. “Mitoma’s great, but if we can get £45m and reinvest, that’s smart business. Trust the process.”

“If it’s March, I’ll be gutted,” another added. “He’s been through it all with us. Feels like the end of an era.”

Ultimately, Brighton fans have grown used to big exits, but the club’s ability to rebuild and improve season after season has earned them faith.

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De Zerbi’s Vision: Shifting the Tactical Lens

If one winger leaves, it may signal a slight tactical shift under Roberto De Zerbi. While width will always play a role in his high-possession, intricate system, there’s been a visible movement toward inverted full-backs, midfield overloads, and even false-nine configurations.

Players like Buonanotte, Enciso, and even Barco offer positional interchange and are less reliant on touchline width. De Zerbi may be looking for more control in central areas, which changes the kind of wingers he wants — possibly explaining why the club is open to letting more traditional wide players leave.

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What Comes Next?

The deal is expected to accelerate over the next week, with Brighton currently fielding formal bids and finalizing exit clauses. If it’s Mitoma, expect a big-money move with add-ons. If Sarmiento, a creative buy-back option is likely. For March, a modest fee and a heartfelt farewell may be on the cards.

Once the departure is confirmed, Brighton are expected to reinvest in other areas — including a new goalkeeper, a center-back, and possibly a young striker to back up João Pedro.

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Conclusion: Endings and New Beginnings at the Amex

Brighton & Hove Albion’s rise has been one of the Premier League’s most inspiring stories in recent years. Their success has been built not only on talent and tactics but also on timing — knowing when to sell, when to hold, and when to evolve.

As one of their wingers prepares for a permanent departure, the club faces another defining moment. Whether it’s Mitoma, Sarmiento, or March, the message is clear:

Brighton are not afraid to let go — because they know what’s coming next.

And that, more than anything, explains why the Seagulls keep soaring.