Flying machine Kaoru Mitoma has been told he should be in no rush to leave Albion.

The Japan winger has been a star performer for the Seagulls since coming into the XI in late October.

He could be the next player they look to secure on a longer deal after new contracts for Alexis Mac Allister, Moises Caicedo and Adam Lallana.

There is little doubt Mitoma will be a subject of transfer interest this summer.

Seagulls head coach Roberto De Zerbi said: “Mitoma is a crucial part of the team for us because, one-against-one in the last 25 metres, he’s one of the most important players.

“I think I have to repeat the same idea, the same opinion I used with Caicedo.

"I think for him it is the first year in the Premier League and it’s important for him, for us for sure, but also for him to play another season with us.”

“We don’t have time to speak about the transfer market because we have another three months to play and for us to reach our target.”