Sporting's scouting has identified Taichi Fukui as a potential midfield reinforcement for next season, and the 21-year-old Japanese player has the agreement of the club's administration. While no formal contacts have been established between the clubs, Sporting's interest is in anticipation of an expected major change in their midfield. An injury to João Simões could accelerate Sporting's efforts to sign Fukui if it leads to a prolonged absence. Arouca, who recently made Fukui their most expensive signing ever by exercising a €1 million purchase option from Bayern Munich, will only consider selling the midfielder for a fee between €5 million and €8 million. Fukui, who has 12 caps and one goal for Japan U20, is under contract until June 30, 2028, and has a current Transfermarkt market value of €2.00m.