Albion will face two J. League clubs in Tokyo’s National Stadium as part of their build-up to next season.

The Seagulls have announced details of their first trip to Japan.

They will play Kashima Antlers and Tokyo Verdy in late July at the 68,000-capacity venue built for the 2020 Olympics.

Japan star Kaoru Mitoma is expected to be fit to play some part in the trip, which is backed by the club’s main sponsors American Express.

Albion deputy chairman and chief executive Paul Barber said: “We are delighted our men’s first team are going to be in Japan for this inaugural visit and one which will be another historic moment for the club.

“We will be in the final part of our pre-season preparations, ahead of the new Premier League season, and are certain this tour will capture the imagination of our supporters.

"It has been amazing to see how interest in our club has grown in Japan and we now have a huge fan base there, and we are very excited in anticipation of our first-ever visit there.”

Albion will face eight-times champions Kashima on Wednesday, July 24, with kick-off at 7pm local time (11am BST).

Kashima are one of the most powerful clubs in the league and have never finished outside the top five.

The following Sunday, July 28, the Seagulls take on Tokyo Verdy, who won promotion back to the J. League last season.

Formerly known as Verdy Kawasaki, they have a proud history as champions in the first two seasons of the league back in the 1990s. Kick-off for that one is at 6.30pm local time (10.30am BST).

Tickets for both games will be available to Albion fans and details will be announced soon, with 2024-25 season-ticket holders, 1901 Club members and My Albion+ members able to buy from this Sunday.