Credit: Sporting CP

Scott Mason

Wed 29 April 2026 12:10, UK

Hidemasa Morita has been a long-term target for Leeds United, with interest first emerging last summer.

The Whites will be looking to strengthen in the summer, with hopes of avoiding a similar relegation-battling campaign to this season.

As it stands, survival is not yet mathematically guaranteed, but the Peacocks are in a good position to stay up in the Premier League.

That status will have implications on the players Daniel Farke can add to his squad, and Morita is one of those on the shortlist.

As Leeds prepare for the transfer window, the signing of Morita could be wrapped up soon, based on the latest reports.

What has been said about Leeds United’s interest in Hidemasa Morita?

According to the Daily Mail, Leeds are now back in for Morita ahead of this summer, with the Japanese international available on a free transfer with his contract expiring at the end of the season.

The report shares that Morita is “willing to commit to Leeds” as long as they confirm their Premier League status.

Leeds view Morita as a player who could provide experienced competition for Ethan Ampadu in the centre of the pitch.

With the Whites on 40 points and facing Burnley this Friday, they could move one inch closer to confirming their first signing of the summer.

If all goes well, Tottenham could end up being unable to beat Leeds’ points total.

With a loss against Aston Villa, Spurs would only be able to match the Elland Road side, should they beat Scott Parker’s outfit.

Additionally, Farke’s side does have the goal difference advantage as well.

Hidemasa Morita signals changing transfer strategy at Leeds United

The transfer strategy in LS11 over the last year has seen Leeds focus on signing players at the peak of their careers and hope they will further kick on in the Premier League.

But when it comes to Morita, the 30-year-old is in the closing stages of his.

While the 40-cap Japan international may have many years left at the top level, midfielders entering their thirties usually are coming into their swansong.

However, there are no signs of slowing down yet with the Leeds transfer target in fine form in Portugal, with fans of Sporting eager to see him remain.

Morita would be able to provide more experience to the engine at Elland Road, and that could be a difference maker in staying out of the relegation fight next season.

The Japanese ace also has plenty of experience on the pitch with Ao Tanaka, with whom he has played at the international and club level for Kawasaki Frontale.

That existing relationship could allow him to settle more quickly in England.