The Japan winger, who has lit up the Amex Stadium for much of the last two campaigns, has suffered a back injury which could leave him on the sidelines for three months.
He has already missed a chunk of the season due to an ankle injury and his participation in the Asia Cup.
Mitoma’s prolonged absence will be a big blow in the Seagulls’ quest for a top-six finish in the Premier League, their Europa League campaign – where they play Roma in the last 16 – and their FA Cup challenge, which continues at Wolves on Wednesday.
Boss Roberto De Zerbi said at a press conference to preview the trip to Molineux: “It’s a bad, bad situation.”
1. Kaoru Mitoma - back
The Japan international will likely miss the remainder of the season with a back injury Photo: Richard Pelham
2. Evan Ferguson - ankle
The striker hobbled off against Everton. He will miss Wolves but should return for Fulham Photo: Mike Hewitt
3. Danny Welbeck - unspecified
The veteran striker is likely to miss Wolves but will hope to return in time to face Fulham. De Zerbi said: "Welbeck has a problem and we have to make a check." Photo: Mike Hewitt
4. Joel Veltman - unspecified
The experienced defender was ruled-out to face Wolves by De Zerbi but could return in time in Fulham. "Veltman as well can’t play." said the Italian head coach Photo: Steve Bardens