What Porto's pursuit of ex-Arsenal star means for Leeds United-linked Zaidu Sanusi

Zaidu Sanusi’s future at Porto hangs in the balance this summer, as there is a possibility he could leave for another club, Afrik-Foot reports.

The Super Eagles star joined the Dragons from Santa Clara in 2020 and has since established himself as a key player for the club.

By last summer, it seemed as though his time in Portugal was over, but under coach Francesco Farioli, he rediscovered his form. Last season, Sanusi featured in 26 games across all competitions, producing brilliant displays during the run-in to the club’s league success.

Seko Fofana and Zaidu Sanusi FC Porto — Seko Fofana and Sanusi. Copyright: xRitaxFrancaxIMAGO

However, with just one year left on his deal, the 29-year-old left-back’s future has become a major topic of discussion in Lisbon. The club has yet to offer Sanusi a contract extension, and in the meantime, he has been linked with some clubs abroad.

Serie A side Atalanta and Premier League side Leeds United have been linked with the Nigerian defender, though nothing concrete has emerged yet.

Also, Porto is making an interesting move in the transfer market that could have significant implications for Sanusi’s future.

Zaidu Sanusi in action for FC Porto — Sanusi in action for FC Porto. Photo by IMAGO

What Porto’s Purported Transfer Move Means for Zaidu Sanusi

According to Diario de Transferencias, Porto is weighing a move for Lazio defender Nuno Tavares.

The Portuguese left-back has been at Lazio for two seasons, where he has produced several decent displays. But before now, Tavares has had a nomadic career, having previously played for Benfica, Arsenal, Marseille, and Nottingham Forest before his current stint at Lazio.

Nuno Tavares of SS Lazio controls the ball during the serie Coppa Italia Frecciarossa final match between SS Lazio and FC Internazionale at Olympic Stadium on May 13, 2026 in Rome, Italy Rome Stadio Olimpico Lazio Italy — Nuno Tavares of SS Lazio. Copyright: ImagoxGiuseppexMaffiax

Given that he is a Portugal native, he might be open to returning home. This interest suggests that Porto may already be preparing for life after Sanusi.

Tavares, 26, shares a similar profile to Sanusi; he is quick and is often more effective in the final third than in his own defensive third. If he joins, the Dragons will likely be open to letting Sanusi leave for a fee.

Zaidu Sanusi during the Afcon Copyright: ImagoxSegunxOgunfeyitimi

The Super Eagles star is valued at €3 million on Transfermarkt. Since he has only one year remaining on his contract, the Portuguese giants is unlikely to demand a high fee to sanction a transfer.

Leeds United will be looking to build on their decent outing in the Premier League last season, and Sanusi could add some quality to their setup due to his experience playing top-flight and continental football.

Atalanta, who do not have the the financial might to pull up trees in the transfer market, will also be monitoring the situation, as they could do with more options at their left-back position.

It remains to be seen whether Sanusi will remain at the Dragao beyond this summer.