Brighton look set to pip Celtic to the signing of Japanese winger Kaoru Mitoma, according to Tokyo Sports, as cited by Sport Witness.

The Lowdown: Mitoma profiled

Mitoma, who has represented Japan at Under-23 level, currently plays for J1 League side Kawasaki Frontale.

The 24-year-old, primarily a left winger, has just 12 months left on his contract. He has scored 12 goals and registered five assists in all competitions this year.

Mitoma handed in a transfer request a day after Ange Postecoglou was announced as Celtic boss, with speculation mounting over a potential Parkhead move. However, it doesn’t look like he will be moving to Scotland.

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The Latest: Source shares update

According to Tokyo Sports, as cited by Sport Witness, Brighton are set to secure Mitoma’s services. The Seagulls have reached a ‘general agreement’, with a deal set to go through following the Olympic Games in his homeland.

Mitoma is unlikely to be granted a work permit in England so could end up moving on loan to Belgian side Royal Union Saint-Gilloise, who have close connections with Brighton.

A source close to the player told Tokyo Sports regarding his next destination: “I heard that it was decided to go to the Premier League.”

The Verdict: Edwards as an alternative?

It remains to be seen just how strong Celtic’s interest in Mitoma had been, although another winger who has been linked with a move to Parkhead is Kyle Edwards.

The former West Brom man is now a free agent and the Hoops are thought to be negotiating personal terms with the 23-year-old. A move would cost Celtic £300,000 in compensation and Edwards and Mitoma can both play on either flank.

Postecoglou wants a new winger through the door before his first competitive game in charge on July 20, so perhaps Edwards will be Celtic’s man over Mitoma, who now looks unattainable.

In other news: Celtic think they can lure £26k-p/w ace to Parkhead; source claims Postecoglou has seen footage, find out more here