Sota Kitano, a 20-year-old Japanese offensive player, has transferred from Cerezo Osaka to FC Red Bull Salzburg, signing a contract that will keep him at the club until June 30, 2029. Kitano, who was developed at Cerezo Osaka's youth academy, also played for Japan's U20 national team. During his time with Cerezo Osaka's first team, he made 91 appearances, scoring 13 goals and providing 6 assists. In the current J-League season, he has managed to score 4 goals and provide 4 assists in 19 games. Kitano will join his fellow countryman, Takumu Kawamura, at Salzburg and is set to start training with the team immediately. Rouven Schröder, Salzburg's sporting director, conveyed his excitement about Kitano's skills and potential, noting his versatility and alignment with the team's philosophy.

Sota Kitano is planned to join FC Red Bull Salzburg before the Club World Cup 2025. The transfer agreement with Kitano has been known for some time, but it is not yet official. FC Red Bull Salzburg managed to secure Kitano's transfer over Austria Wien.

FC Red Bull Salzburg appears to be at the forefront in securing the Japanese forward Sota Kitano from Cerezo Osaka. Reports from the Japanese media outlet 'nikkan sports' suggest that the competition for the 20-year-old's transfer is nearing a conclusion, with Salzburg anticipated to be his next club. It is believed that Salzburg made an offer back in April, and there are discussions of a basic agreement and ongoing final negotiations. Kitano, whose contract runs until the end of January 2026, has a market value of 400 thousand Euros. He primarily plays as a forward and has scored four goals and provided two assists in 15 matches during the current J1-League season.

Sota Kitano is also attracting interest from FK Austria Wien. The club is reportedly interested in signing the young forward, who has been impressive in the Japanese first division and has international experience with the Japanese U20 national team.