At a glance
- Brighton targeting Hiroki Ito transfer from Bayern Munich
- Japanese defender could replace Jan Paul van Hecke
- Centre-back fits Brighton’s tactical style
Brighton are reportedly stepping up their interest in Bayern Munich defender Hiroki Ito ahead of the summer transfer window. But who exactly is the Japanese international, and why do the Seagulls want him?
The 26-year-old centre-back, who joined Bayern in 2024 for around £26 million from Stuttgart, is attracting attention from Brighton, as well as Leeds United and West Ham. Bayern are now open to offers in the region of roughly £17-21 million, following an injury-disrupted spell in the German capital.
Ito’s time in Munich hasn’t gone to plan. A metatarsal fracture sustained during pre-season in 2024 ruled him out for the first half of the campaign, and subsequent hamstring injuries in February and March have further limited his involvement. Across nearly two seasons, he has made just 28 appearances and has fallen behind Kim Min-jae and Dayot Upamecano in the pecking order.
Despite that, Brighton remain seriously interested and it’s not hard to see why.
Why Brighton Want Hiroki Ito
Ito is a highly versatile defender. Naturally a centre-back, he is also comfortable at left-back and in defensive midfield. Known for his composure in possession, progressive passing, and strong tactical discipline, he fits the profile of the modern, ball-playing defender Brighton typically favour. He appears to be the perfect replacement for Jan Paul van Hecke, who has reportedly declined a contract extension and will likely leave the club this summer.
This season, Ito has made 15 Bundesliga appearances, starting nine, and has contributed one goal and two assists, his goal came against Augsburg in January.
READ MORE: Brighton Plot €25m Raid on Bayern Munich Star Hiroki Ito as Transfer Battle Heats Up
Who is Ito?
His rise began in Japan with Jubilo Iwata, where he progressed through the youth ranks before making his senior debut in March 2018. A move to Stuttgart followed in 2021, initially on loan, before the deal was made permanent in 2022.
Ito played a crucial role in Stuttgart’s impressive 2023/24 season, helping them secure a runner-up finish in the Bundesliga and qualification for the Champions League. It was that form which ultimately earned him a move to Bayern.
On the international stage, he made his senior Japan debut in June 2022 and has since become part of their defensive setup.
Transfer Situation and What Happens Next
For Brighton, the interest goes beyond just footballing qualities. The club have already seen significant engagement from Japanese supporters through Kaoru Mitoma, and signing Ito could strengthen both their squad depth and global profile.
With Bayern willing to sell and Brighton actively scouting, this is a deal that feels increasingly plausible. The question now is whether Brighton will make their move and if Ito sees the Amex as the right place to reignite his career.
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