adminThanks to a major upturn in form in the Premier League, Leeds United are on the verge of securing their first summer signing as soon as the transfer window opens next month.
For most of the 2025/26 campaign, Leeds have lingered near the relegation zone. However, a six-match unbeaten run has seen them climb to fourth in the form table over that period, pulling well clear of danger. With a seven-point buffer separating them from 18th-placed West Ham, relegation now looks highly unlikely.
Leeds Have Been Lining This Move Up for a Year
Daniel Farke has earned plenty of praise for steering Leeds to safety. Once survival is mathematically confirmed, his focus will shift to summer recruitment—but the club’s first addition may already be close. According to reports, a deal for Sporting CP midfielder Hidemasa Morita is nearly done.
Portuguese outlet A Bola claims Morita’s next destination is “already decided,” with Leeds having laid the groundwork over the past year. The 30-year-old is out of contract this summer and will leave the José Alvalade Stadium, with Elland Road appearing to be his likely landing spot.
Leeds first made Morita an offer last summer. The Japanese international has long wanted to finish his career in England but made it clear he would only move to a Premier League club, not a Championship side. Once Leeds confirm their top-flight status for next season, Morita is expected to be announced as having agreed to join on a free transfer following the expiry of his Sporting contract on June 30.
Leeds Star Already in Morita’s Ear
Morita can operate as a No. 6 or No. 8 in midfield, giving Farke extra depth alongside Ethan Ampadu, Ilia Gruev, Sean Longstaff, and fellow Japan international Ao Tanaka. Tanaka, who plays with Morita for the national team, has already been doing his part to convince his compatriot to make the move to Yorkshire.
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