Report: Atalanta eye Super Eagles star

Former Europa League winners Atalanta are considering a move for Super Eagles defender Zaidu Sanusi from Porto ahead of the summer transfer window, Afrik-Foot reports.

Sanusi joined the Portuguese champions from Santa Clara in 2020 and gradually developed into an important player for the club after a slow start. He also scored the only goal in a 1–0 win over Benfica in May 2022, which secured Porto’s 30th Portuguese league title in the 2021–22 season.

However, his progress was affected in the following campaign as he struggled with several injuries, including an anterior cruciate ligament injury to his left knee. This setback forced him to miss a significant part of the next few seasons before he eventually returned to action last season.

The Nigerian left-back was linked with a move away from Porto last summer, with Premier League side Leeds United among interested clubs. However, he opted to remain in Portugal and fight for his place in the squad.

That decision eventually paid off, as Sanusi was reintegrated into the team earlier in the campaign and played an important role as Porto went on to win the Portuguese league title for the 31st time.

Zaidu Sanusi: Atalanta identify Super Eagles defender as top target 

Super Eagles defender Zaidu Sanusi’s contract at Porto is set to expire at the end of the 2026–27 season and there has been uncertainty over his future with no agreement reached over an extension. This situation has fueled speculation that he could leave this summer, with several clubs monitoring the situation.

According to Footy-Africa, Italian club Atalanta are now exploring a potential move for the Nigerian defender and have already made enquiries about his availability ahead of the summer transfer window.

The 2024 Europa League winners endured a difficult campaign and are expected to miss out on UEFA Champions League qualification, while they will also end the season without silverware after falling short in different competitions.

This has led to the need to strengthen the squad ahead of next season, with Sanusi seen as an experienced player who could contribute both on and off the pitch with his leadership qualities.

The Super Eagles defender is valued at around €3 million, although Porto are reportedly holding out for about €7 million and could consider a sale this summer if no new contract is agreed, in order to avoid losing him for free when his current deal expires.

With the Portuguese league season now over, Sanusi will now shift his attention to the Super Eagles’ upcoming friendly matches against Poland and Portugal next month. 

The 28-year-old will be hoping for a strong showing to strengthen his claim for the left-back position ahead of Bruno Onyemaechi, before returning to Porto where a final decision on his future is expected to be made.