Leeds United appear to be edging closer to their first signing of the summer after fresh details emerged surrounding Hidemasa Morita’s proposed move from Sporting CP.
The midfielder has already agreed in principle to join Leeds, and the latest developments suggest the deal is now entering its final stages.
Morita has increasingly looked like Leeds United’s priority midfield target since promotion back to the Premier League was confirmed. The Japan international has regularly been linked with Leeds.
The former Santa Clara and Kawasaki Frontale star is now expected to become the club’s first arrival of the summer window after negotiations continued to progress behind the scenes.
Massive upgrade on Ilia Gruev 👊
On a free, Morita would be a stunning signing.
Fresh updates on Thursday emerged, with journalist Nicolo Schira reporting that Morita is set to sign a two-year contract at Elland Road with the option of a third season included in the agreement.
He posted on X: “Hidemasa Morita is one step away to sign for Leeds as a free agent. Ready a contract until 2028 with the possible option for 2029.”
That structure would give Leeds immediate experience in midfield while still retaining flexibility over the player’s long-term future given he turns 31 this weekend.
Morita brings the profile Leeds need in second-season scrap
Leeds are not targeting Morita based on reputation alone. His statistical profile suggests he is exactly the type of midfielder recently-promoted teams often need in the Premier League.
Figures from Portugal show Morita averaged 7.44 progressive passes per 90 minutes, alongside 2.20 tackles and 6.15 ball recoveries per game.
Those numbers point towards a midfielder capable of controlling possession while also offering defensive security in central areas.
Morita has also been described as a “very complete” midfielder, with Leeds clearly valuing his composure and tactical discipline ahead of their return to the top flight.
Premier League experience may not matter for Morita
While Morita has never played in England before, Leeds appear convinced his experience at Sporting CP can translate quickly to Premier League football.
The midfielder arrives with title-winning pedigree in Portugal, Champions League experience and more than 40 international caps for Japan.
Reports have also stated Morita wanted a move to the Premier League, which may have helped Leeds move ahead in negotiations.
Leeds are expected to recruit carefully this summer given the scale of the challenge awaiting them next season, making experienced and tactically reliable players especially important.
Sebastiaan Bornauw is Leeds’ worst signing of 2025-26 👎
Not had a chance.
Leeds are moving quickly after promotion with Morita signing
The speed of this deal suggests Leeds had already identified key targets before the Premier League season has concluded. It mirrors last summer, with Lukas Nmecha signed on a free early on.
Morita may not arrive with the same attention as some attacking signings this summer, but Leeds appear to view him as a player capable of making an immediate impact.
If the deal is finalised, Leeds will begin their summer rebuild with a midfielder who offers experience, control and consistency, which are qualities they are likely to need from the opening weeks of next season.
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