Credit: Tung Manh Phan, Breaking Media

Josh Edwards

Wed 6 May 2026 12:10, UK

Sean Longstaff looks set to have his gametime reduced further at Leeds United.

Leeds are an Arsenal victory away from Premier League safety being confirmed, though it is already fair to say that their status is as good as sealed.

And with that in mind, the Whites have already started to initiate plans ahead of the summer transfer window, with several targets lined up.

Hidemasa Morita had been heavily linked with a move to Elland Road, having played a crucial role for Sporting over the last few years.

It was then claimed that Leeds are closing in on his signing, and that could be the worst news possible for Longstaff.

Hidemasa Morita arrival could spell end for Sean Longstaff

Morita is a defensive midfielder by trade, and he is most likely to rotate with Ethan Ampadu in that regard.

However, given his quality and experience, he is highly unlikely to move to Elland Road to have that role behind Ampadu, while the Welshman is just as unlikely to be displaced after the season he has had.

That leaves Anton Stach, Ao Tanaka, Ilia Gruev, and Longstaff to be replaced, with the latter the one who has had the least gametime.

Daniel Farke has shown plenty of love to the first three, while Longstaff has been all but forgotten with his lack of minutes since his return from injury.

They may have slightly different roles, but Morita’s arrival could effectively spell the end for the former Newcastle star.

What would Hidemasa Morita bring to Leeds?

Experience, and lots of it.

The Japan international has been playing at the highest level in Portugal since 2022, and has thrived throughout that period, with plenty of European appearances to go alongside it.

Morita ranks among the top 11 per cent of midfielders in Portugal for recoveries per game, with him averaging 5.94 per 90.

He also ranks among the top 27 per cent for tackles per 90, with 2.55 each game that he features.

With 72 touches per game, it showcases how Morita is likely to manage the tempo of games, much like Ampadu has for Leeds in the Premier League.