According to Football Insider, Sporting CP midfielder Hidemasa Morita is prepared to reject interest from Leeds United this summer, preferring to join Aston Villa.

According to reports in Portugal, Aston Villa are considering a late attempt to sign Sporting CP midfielder Hidemasa Morita, whose contract expires this summer. O Jogo claims Aston Villa have also become interested and want to sign the Japan international ahead of Leeds.

Hidemasa Morita, a 30-year-old Japanese international, has been closely monitored by Aston Villa and Brighton & Hove Albion. Morita joined Sporting in July 2022 and is approaching the end of his contract. He is expected to become a free agent, despite the club's efforts to retain him. Leeds United are in advanced discussions to sign the midfielder and are considered the favourites. Sources have confirmed that talks have occurred via intermediaries. FC Porto has also expressed interest, and it is understood that clubs in France, Germany, and Italy have made enquiries. According to reports in Portugal, which have been confirmed by sources, Morita is intrigued by the prospect of a move to the Premier League. The midfielder has 40 caps and 6 goals for Japan. According to Transfermarkt, he has a current market value of €9.00m.