Leeds United chiefs need to cut holidays short to avoid Hidemasa Morita howler

Leeds United appeared certain to have a deal in place for Hidemasa Morita just a few weeks ago.

The Japan international has already announced he is leaving Sporting CP at the end of the month when his contract expires.

Leeds were considered the strong favourites to land Morita, so much so that it was deemed in some outlets as a done deal.

However, the deal is not as advanced as previously thought and Leeds now risk losing out.

If that is to be the case, serious questions need to be asked of those high up at Elland Road.

Hidemasa Morita talks slow - but why?

Morita has showed his class in the Portuguese top flight and at international level with Japan.

Portuguese outlet A Bola have reported extensively on how Morita is as good as joining Leeds.

However, Saturday's edition softens that stance somewhat as it is suggested talks between the 31-year-old and Leeds have not advanced in recent days.

While it is is not outlined why that is the case, you would certainly hope that is not down to Leeds' side of things.

This is a deal the likes of Paraag Marathe need to be getting over the line right now.

If they are away on holiday or other business, there is no excuse for not getting an agreement in place already with Morita.

Indeed, the same report suggests that the interest remains strong in Morita from elsewhere, with three Ligue 1 teams circling.

Why Morita deal is a dream for Leeds

Morita is a bit of an all-rounder in central midfield, which is something Daniel Farke will clearly like.

And best of all, he is available for free. Sure, there will be a signing-on fee and wages to account for, but Leeds are saving themselves an eight-figure transfer cost.

Morita is not part of Japan's talented World Cup squad - unlike Ao Tanaka - so there is no reason why a deal has not already been locked in.

If the Whites miss out on his signature, they will only have themselves to blame.