Ipswich Town are in talks to sign experienced Japanese midfielder Hidemasa Morita on a free transfer following his departure from Portuguese champions Sporting CP.
According to the East Anglian Daily Times and Ipswich Star, the Blues are pushing to complete a deal for the 31-year-old as they continue strengthening Gary O’Neil’s squad ahead of their return to the Premier League. The move was first reported by TWTD.
Morita has attracted interest from several clubs across Europe, including Premier League rivals Leeds United, but Ipswich are now leading the race to secure the midfielder’s signature.
The Japan international began his professional career with Kawasaki Frontale after impressing at Ryutsu Keizai University. He enjoyed a successful spell in the J.League before moving to Portugal in 2021, joining Santa Clara. His impressive performances earned him a transfer to Sporting CP, where he established himself as a key figure in midfield.
During the 2025/26 campaign, Morita made 31 league appearances for Sporting CP, starting 23 matches while contributing one goal and four assists. His calmness in possession, tactical intelligence, and ability to dictate the tempo of games made him an important part of Sporting’s midfield.
On the international stage, Morita has earned 40 caps for Japan and represented his country at the 2022 FIFA World Cup. Although he was not included in Hajime Moriyasu’s squad for this summer’s tournament, he remains one of Japan’s most experienced midfielders.
Known for his composure under pressure, excellent passing range, and relentless pressing, Morita operates primarily as a deep-lying playmaker. His experience in both the J.League and Portugal’s Primeira Liga could provide valuable quality and leadership to Ipswich’s midfield as they prepare for the challenges of Premier League football.
If the transfer is completed, Morita will become the first Japanese player in Ipswich Town’s history, marking a significant milestone for the Suffolk club.
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