Player who turned down Sporting renewal catches Paulo Fonseca's eye | OneFootball

Hidemasa Morita recently ended his spell at Sporting, leaving Alvalade after three seasons marked by consistency and influence in the Lions’ midfield, having chosen not to renew his contract. Now a free agent after his deal expired, the Japan international is currently weighing up his options for the next step in his career.

Morita’s main goal remains a move to the Premier League. Leeds are one of the clubs that have been tracking the player for the longest time and have continued to keep tabs on the midfielder, but talks between the parties have yet to reach a decisive stage.

That waiting period is opening the door for new interested clubs. According to information gathered by the international press, several French clubs are closely monitoring the Japanese player’s situation and are considering making a move if the move to England does not materialise.

Among the most attentive clubs are Marseille, Monaco and Lyon. The side managed by Paulo Fonseca is one of the clubs following the situation most closely, assessing the possibility of signing an experienced player without a transfer fee.

In the 2025/26 season, wearing the Sporting shirt, Hidemasa Morita - valued at €9 million - has made 49 appearances. The Japanese footballer played a total of 2,771 minutes, providing six assists and scoring one goal.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇵🇹 here.