Transfers: FC Porto set to block Zaidu Sanusi’s exit – key reason revealed

Super Eagles defender Zaidu Sanusi faces an uncertain future at FC Porto amid interest from several clubs ahead of the summer transfer window, Afrik-Foot reports.

Sanusi joined the Portuguese giants from Santa Clara in 2020 and quickly established himself as a key member of the squad. However, a series of injuries over the past two seasons saw him lose his regular starting spot at different stages.

The Nigerian international was heavily linked with a move to the Premier League last summer, with Leeds United among the clubs reportedly interested in signing him.

Despite the speculation, Sanusi opted to remain in Portugal and went on to play an important role in the club’s league title triumph last season, beating Benfica and Sporting CP to the title. He made 26 appearances across all competitions as Porto also reached the quarter-finals of the UEFA Europa League before they were eliminated.

With his current contract set to expire next summer, uncertainty over his long-term future has continued to fuel transfer speculation. Italian side Atalanta, along with several Premier League clubs, are monitoring his situation ahead of a possible move this summer.

Sanusi has made it clear that he would like to remain at Porto beyond this summer. The Portuguese champions are also open to extending his contract, but they are keen to avoid a situation where he leaves as a free agent next year without signing a new deal.

Why Porto may not sell Zaidu Sanusi this summer

Under normal circumstances, Porto would be expected to consider offers for Sanusi this summer to avoid losing him for nothing when his contract expires next year. 

However, the situation has become more complicated because of uncertainty surrounding the future of Francisco Moura, according to reports.

Moura, who competes with Sanusi for the left-back position at the club, shared playing time with the Nigerian during the title-winning campaign. The Portuguese defender is now attracting interest from clubs in the Premier League and looks very likely to leave.

With opportunities limited at Porto, Moura could be tempted by a move that offers him more regular first-team football. Coventry City are among the clubs interested, where he would likely enjoy more consistent playing time after falling behind Sanusi during the second half of last season.

However, allowing Moura to depart would leave Porto with Sanusi as their only experienced left-back. Given the importance of the Nigerian defender and his experience within the team, it would make little sense for the club to lose both senior left-backs in the same transfer window.

For that reason, Porto are increasingly expected to resist offers for Sanusi this summer if Moura departs, dealing a major setback to the hopes of Atalanta, Leeds United and other interested clubs.

This would also strengthen the chances of Porto offering the Nigerian defender a new contract, potentially extending his stay at the club beyond next summer.