Everton offered chance to sign 86.6% Idrissa Gana Gueye replacement

Everton have been handed the perfect chance to sign Sporting CP midfielder Hidemasa Morita this summer when his contract expires.

The 30-year-old is coming to the end of his deal, with several Premier League sides reportedly exploring a potential approach.

Leeds United’s interest had reportedly been the most advanced, with discussions having supposedly been ticking towards the final stages.

But those claims have now been rubbished, with a new report confirming that the Premier League side do not even hold an interest in Morita.

That has left the door open for Everton transfer chiefs, who could be set to swoop in and agree a deal with the Japan international.

Leeds United interest in Hidemasa Morita rubbished

Ruben Amorim was a big fan of Morita during his time in charge of Sporting, and it is easy to see why.

The 30-year-old has made 47 appearances across all competitions this season and is an ever-reliable presence for now-manager Rui Borges.

The Japan international joined the Portuguese side in 2022 from Santa Clara, after a strong first season in Liga Portugal.

The years since have seen him make 163 appearances for Sporting, winning the title twice and writing his name into legend at Jose Alvalade Stadium.

It appears Morita is now keen to explore a new opportunity, but it will not be at Elland Road with Leeds.

The Yorkshire Evening Post reports on Thursday that the Whites are not interested in the midfielder, and that the links that have emerged in recent months are “nonsense”.

That is not to say Morita’s situation does not represent a good opportunity for another club, however, and that may be where Everton come in.

Everton could be set for movement in midfield

David Moyes has been left light in several positions at various points this season, but he has always been fairly well stocked in midfield.

James Garner and Idrissa Gana Gueye have featured throughout the season, and the likes of Harrison Armstrong, Tim Ireogbunam and Merlin Rohl have filled in well where necessary.

Gueye has looked just as sprightly as ever, but at the age of 36, the Senegal international is expected to start winding down at some point.

With that moment potentially set to arrive next season, Moyes and Everton will want to be prepared.

Morita would represent a cut-price option to provide both cover and competition for Gueye, with the door now open after Leeds were ruled out.

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