Leeds United are reportedly interested in Sporting Lisbon and Japan midfielder Hidemasa Morita.
The 30-year-old cut his teeth in his native Japan with Kawasaki Frontale, where he played alongside current Leeds midfielder Ao Tanaka.
In 2021, he moved to Portuguese outfit Santa Clara, from where he was signed by heavyweights Sporting Lisbon a year later.
He has since amassed over 150 appearances for the Lions, although appears set to depart when his contract expires in the summer.
Hidemasa Morita has been on the books of Sporting Lisbon since 2022.placeholder image
Hidemasa Morita has been on the books of Sporting Lisbon since 2022. | Octavio Passos/Getty Images
Leeds United linked with experienced international
According to Portuguese outlet A Bola, it is a certainty he will seek pastures new at the end of the season.
The outlet has credited Leeds with interest and suggested Morita dreams of playing in the Premier League.
A defensive midfielder, he could prove to be a shrewd free transfer addition for the Whites if they manage to stay in the top flight.
Morita is a 40-cap Japan international and boasts a wealth of experience that could be tapped into by Leeds boss Daniel Farke.
There is also the bonus of Morita being familiar with Tanaka, although the Leeds man has been the subject of transfer speculation of late.
He has been a bit-part player in the Premier League this season and reports have indicated there is interest from the top two tiers in Germany.
Hidemasa Morita has played alongside Ao Tanaka at international level for Japan.placeholder image
Hidemasa Morita has played alongside Ao Tanaka at international level for Japan. | Robert Cianflone/Getty Images
A crucial summer ahead for Leeds United
Lessons will need to be learnt from their last spell in the Premier League, which ended after three seasons despite a promising start.
It has been claimed Leeds will look to recruit players able to fit into a flexible 3-5-2 system adopted in recent months.