Ipswich Town in Talks to Sign Experienced Japan International Hidemasa Morita

Ipswich Town are understood to be in talks with free agent and Japan international Hidemasa Morita as Kieran McKenna’s side continue to strengthen ahead of the new campaign.

According to TWTD, the Blues are exploring a move for the experienced midfielder, who became a free agent after leaving Portuguese giants Sporting Lisbon at the end of last season. Morita is now weighing up his next challenge after three successful years in Portugal.

The 31-year-old has attracted interest from several clubs across Europe in recent months. A move to the Premier League has long been one of his ambitions, with Leeds United previously linked, while clubs in France are also believed to have made enquiries. Ipswich, however, are now firmly in the race and are hoping to persuade the midfielder to begin a new chapter at Portman Road.

Morita is widely regarded as a calm, intelligent defensive midfielder who excels at breaking up opposition attacks while also being comfortable in possession. His tactical awareness, composure under pressure, and ability to dictate the tempo of matches have made him one of Japan’s most reliable midfielders over the past few years.

Born in Takatsuki, Osaka, Morita developed through the Japanese university football system, representing Ryutsu Keizai University before beginning his professional career with Kawasaki Frontale in 2018. During his time there, he helped the club win the J.League title and quickly established himself as one of the country’s standout midfielders.

His impressive performances earned him a move to Portuguese side Santa Clara in January 2021, where he adapted quickly to European football. Just 18 months later, Sporting Lisbon secured his signature, and Morita went on to become a regular fixture in one of Portugal’s biggest clubs.

Across three seasons with Sporting, Morita made 166 appearances in all competitions, scoring 11 goals and providing 16 assists. He also featured regularly in European competition and played an important role as Sporting challenged for domestic honours.

On the international stage, Morita has represented Japan 40 times, scoring six goals. He was part of Japan’s squad at the 2022 FIFA World Cup and has remained a key figure for his national team, although he was omitted from the squad for this summer’s tournament.

Should Ipswich complete the deal, Morita would become the first Japanese player in the club’s history, adding valuable top-level experience to McKenna’s squad. His arrival would also represent another statement of intent from the Blues as they continue to build a team capable of competing at the highest level.

Negotiations are believed to be ongoing, with Ipswich hopeful of reaching an agreement in the coming days if all parties can settle on the final terms.