Leeds United’s next transfer priority could well be a new midfielder after completing the signing of Jaka Bijol. The Slovenian defender has joined Leeds for a fee of £15m from Udinese.
Leeds have now added top-quality cover up front in Lukas Nmecha and brought in a starting defender to go alongside Joe Rodon. But Adam Underwood and The 49ers will be aware that much more is needed.
A new goalkeeper, with Illan Meslier set for a move to Turkey. A new left-back, with Junior Firpo set to sign for Real Betis. A new midfielder, a new no.10 to replace Brenden Aaronson and a starting striker.
Leeds have been linked with many midfielders, while also bidding £21m for Habib Diarra. But in a surprise twist of events, another midfield target will not be allowed to leave – despite his contract ending in 2026.
Sporting Lisbon make decision on Japan player Hidemasa Morita
Leeds are interested in signing Ao Tanaka’s Japan teammate Hidemasa Morita from Sporting Lisbon. A player that has shared the pitch 67 times with Tanaka, for Kawasaki Frontale and the Japan National Team.
Morita has made it clear he wants to leave Sporting and will not sign a new contract. But Portuguese site A Bola now say Sporting have made a decision and it is to keep Morita, even though he won’t sign on.
It means Sporting are willing to risk Morita leaving for nothing in a year’s time. It comes after no clubs have been willing to match Sporting’s asking price of £8.5m to sign the experienced player this summer.
What Ruben Amorim has said about Hidemasa Morita
Morita was bought by Sporting Lisbon during Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim’s stint as boss, from Portuguese side Santa Clara. Amorim is a massive fan of Morita, amid reports that Leeds are keen.
“Always willing to help others, apologises a thousand times a day, very respectful, plays anywhere and always wants to learn. I only have good things to say about Morita. Blessed be the day we chose Morita.”
While Leeds need a midfielder after waving goodbye to Josuha Guilavogui and Joe Rothwell, the club won’t be signing Morita this summer as Sporting choose to keep him on side despite his contract issue.
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