Sota Kitano was being pursued by both Austria Wien and Red Bull Salzburg. Jürgen Werner, the sports director, confirmed that an agreement with Red Bull Salzburg is considered certain. Austria Wien couldn't compete with the financial power of Red Bull Salzburg.

Both FC Red Bull Salzburg and Austria Wien have shown interest in acquiring Sota Kitano from Cerezo Osaka. However, Salzburg seems to be leading the transfer negotiations, having allegedly made an offer as early as April. A report from the Japanese media outlet 'nikkan sports' suggests that the transfer race for the 20-year-old is approaching its conclusion, with Salzburg likely to become the new club for the young forward. It is reported that a fundamental agreement has been reached, and final negotiations are in progress. Kitano, valued at 400,000 Euros and primarily a forward, has a contract with Cerezo Osaka until the end of January 2026. During the current J1-League season, he has scored four goals and provided two assists in 15 appearances.