Leeds United had a unique transfer window to start the season. Some fans considered the recruitment not good enough after the events of that summer.
Daniel Farke took Leeds to Championship play-off final. The Whites eventually fell to Southampton, who gained promotion to the Premier League. That summer, the club lost three of its best players – Archie Gray, Crysencio Summerville and Georginio Rutter. Without the reigning EFL Championship player of the Year, and EFL Championship Young player of the year, one would expect the recruitment to replace the quality lost.
Unfortunately, Farke did not get all his first choice targets. Leeds missed out on Gustavo Hamer after Sheffield United rejected multiple bids.
QUIZ: Can you name the Leeds game these 10 goal celebrations are from?
Leeds United target gives green light
Credit: Imago Images
The Leeds boss did get one signing he requested for. Multiple sources within the club indicate that the German coach played a huge part in bringing Ao Tanaka to England. Farke’s recruitment paid off greatly, as the Japanese international made an instant impact on his arrival. He was voted Leeds Players’ Player of the year.
Based on Tanaka’s success in England, another one of his colleagues could make the jump across leagues. Sporting CP midfielder Hidemasa Morita has been linked with a move to Elland Road over the last month. Now, sources in Portugal claim the 30-year old is open to a Premier League move.
Maisfutebol have reported that Sporting have failed with attempts offer him a contract. The Portuguese giants are willing to keep Morita next season, despite his contract ending in 2026. Portuguese newspaper Record also claim that Sporting could let the midfielder go for around £6million.
Leeds could hit the jackpot again with Morita
Just like how successful Ao Tanaka has been this year, Leeds could repeat that success with Morita. The midfielder has been a solid presence in the middle of the park for Sporting this season. Only one midfielder has completed more passes than Morita (94) in the Portuguese league for Sporting CP this campaign.
