Leeds United plot transfer to sign Ao Tanaka’s teammate - 2 players at Elland Road may be nervous now | OneFootball

Whites’ interest in Hidemasa Morita could be bad news for Joe Rothwell and Ilia Gruev

Leeds United’s long-anticipated promotion to the Premier League is now secured, and the club’s recruitment team are already laying the groundwork for a crucial summer in the transfer market.

On their radar is Sporting CP midfielder Hidemasa Morita - a player well-regarded across Europe and a regular international for Japan alongside Ao Tanaka.

According to Portuguese outlet Record, Leeds' interest in the 29-year-old is expected to intensify now that top-flight football is guaranteed at Elland Road. Morita’s contract in Lisbon runs until 2026, but this summer may represent Sporting’s last realistic opportunity to cash in.

Having impressed since joining from Santa Clara in 2022, Morita played a key role in Sporting's title-winning campaign and remains a vital cog in midfield.

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Technically astute and tactically disciplined, Morita’s profile matches the kind of midfielder Daniel Farke is likely to rely on in the Premier League - composed under pressure, strong in the press, and able to transition quickly from defence to attack.

However, while his arrival would undoubtedly strengthen Leeds’ squad depth, it could come at a cost to two players currently on the Whites' books.

The potential arrival of Hidemasa Morita could throw fresh doubt over the futures of Joe Rothwell and Ilia Gruev at Leeds United - both of whom have played supporting roles in the club’s successful promotion campaign.

3 Joe Rothwell

Rothwell, who joined on loan from AFC Bournemouth in the summer, quickly established himself as a reliable and experienced option in midfield.

His early performances in white were steady and composed, but injury has cut his recent contribution short.

With Rothwell's return to the south coast also looming, it remains unclear whether Leeds will pursue a permanent deal or allow him to rejoin Andoni Iraola’s squad. Morita’s addition may make that decision for him.

2 Ilia Gruev

Gruev, meanwhile, has had a season of mixed fortunes. Initially forced to wait in the wings as Ethan Ampadu and Glen Kamara dominated 23/24's midfield selections, the Bulgarian international eventually broke into the starting XI, making 18 league starts in the 24/25 season.

However, a knee injury curtailed his momentum, and despite interest from several clubs ahead of the summer window, the 24-year-old is reportedly committed to staying at Leeds and fighting for his place.

The Japanese international’s arrival could push Gruev even further down the pecking order, particularly with other players already entrenched in starting roles.

1 The signing of Morita would further increase competition for places. Gruev's defensive attributes have proved valuable, but he is yet to establish himself as an indispensable figure in Farke’s system.

Leeds will undoubtedly need depth and versatility to compete in the Premier League, but balancing the squad without alienating current players will be a challenge.

Morita brings proven pedigree and international experience - qualities that the Whites' hierarchy will believe are essential for survival and stability in the top tier.

As things stand, the pursuit of Hidemasa Morita signals Leeds’ ambition to hit the ground running upon their Premier League return. But for Rothwell and Gruev, it may prompt serious reflection over what comes next.