Brighton head coach Roberto De Zerbi has stated that winger Kaoru Mitoma will stay at the club.

Per The Argus, De Zerbi was talking to younger Albion fans at a “junior press conference" this week.

He wanted to tell those younger fans a secret about the club that no one else knew at the time.

De Zerbi stated: “I spoke with Mitoma and I told him we have to improve in situations.

“I told him we have a lot of time - this year, next year. (Mitoma) told me yes, yes, I understand."

His comment indicates that the Japan international will remain a Brighton player for next season and beyond.