Leeds United are reigniting their interest in Japanese midfielder Hidemasa Morita, who is nearing the end of his contract with Sporting Lisbon.
With no renewal in sight, Morita’s upcoming free agency presents a strategic opportunity for Leeds to strengthen their midfield. Sporting are already preparing for his departure on a free transfer.
Sporting’s plan to replace Morita involves signing at least two new midfielders, including a successor to captain Morten Hjulmand. The club is actively restructuring its midfield ahead of the summer window.
Anton Stach needs a new deal before it’s too late – discuss…
He's easily doubled his value this season!
Leeds were previously interested in Morita last summer, making them the only English club with concrete links to the midfielder. However, Morita wanted to remain at Sporting even if his contract was expiring.
Reports noted that Morita missed several matches due to injuries, raising doubts about committing to a transfer. But now, Portuguese outlet A Bola says Leeds have reignited their interest in the midfielder.
Why Leeds United will want to sign a new midfielder
As things stand, Leeds have five central midfielders. But there is a concern that Anton Stach’s form could generate interest and realistically, there is no direct replacement for Ethan Ampadu when unavailable.
Ampadu is no stranger to injury and like Ilia Gruev, finds himself in the final 18 months of his career. Leeds are said to be working on new deals for Ampadu, Gruev, Brenden Aaronson and Pascal Struijk.
But there is a world where Leeds need a new midfielder and Morita would provide the Whites with an experienced head in the middle of the park. That, and he is Ao Tanaka’s Japan National teammate.
Why Leeds United might reconsider now
Leeds United’s renewed interest in Morita could be attributed to his improved fitness record, with only two matches missed due to injury this season. This change alleviates previous concerns.
DISCUSS: Pavel Sulc would be Adam Underwood’s best signing…
He'd be a club-record signing for Leeds!
Morita has a long-held ambition to play in the Premier League. With his contract nearing its end, the financial aspect of acquiring him as a free agent becomes more appealing for Leeds.
The Whites are in search of a dependable midfield option, and Morita could be the strategic signing needed to address their current squad challenges.
As the summer transfer window approaches, monitoring this situation could be advantageous for Leeds, especially given their existing midfield requirements and the task of securing survival next season.
Receive a digest of our best Leeds content each week direct to your mailbox
