Leeds handed major boost in bid to sign Ao Tanaka’s pal as transfer approach made
Daniel Farke is eager to prove that he can succeed in the Premier League with Leeds United after doubt was cast over his future.
The 49ers are ready to stick by the German and back him to make the necessary additions to his squad, but Farke will need to ensure the business is right.
The boss has shown his ability to pull off big business in the past, with Ao Tanaka being a standout addition in his debut season at Elland Road.
With that in mind, it’s no surprise that Farke is seeking assistance from someone who knows Tanaka well from international football with Japan.
Hidemasa Morita ready for Premier League move
Leeds were well aware that gaining promotion to the Premier League this season would serve as a massive boost when it comes to the summer transfer window.
Not only does it allow Farke to retain his strongest players, but there is also an instant attraction there for prospective newcomers.
The West Yorkshire outfit have been interested in the potential addition of Hidemasa Morita, currently of Sporting CP, with a contract running until 2026.
It has been reported by Portuguese news outlet Maisfutebol (9 May) that there has been no success in negotiations over a new contract, but his current side are willing to stick with him with the risk of losing him for free.
The report states that there will be one more conversation at the end of the campaign in the hope of resolving an issue, but Leeds may have thrown a spanner into the works.
Morita is reportedly dreaming of playing in competitive English football, with the Premier League clearly a perfect solution to that.
Although Sporting don’t want to lose their midfielder this summer, an offer from Premier League Leeds on the last chance to cash in could prove to be too good an offer to turn down.
Morita could be great addition for Leeds United
With promotion to the top flight, Leeds will have to be mindful of PSR restrictions when it comes to their summer business, meaning they have to be shrewd in what they do.
With that in mind, looking towards Portugal for business isn’t the worst move and Morita is an international player, meaning he has the experience to show what he can do.
| Appearances | Goals | Assists |
| 114 | 10 | 13 |
Given he has already played with Tanaka for Japan, having him as an option to play alongside someone he already knows well could certainly pay off for Farke.
If the Whites can take advantage of a situation where a club have one last chance to cash in, they could well strike a strong deal here.