Super Eagles: 2 ways Porto’s decision to keep Sanusi could pay off

Super Eagles defender Zaidu Sanusi could be set for a big role at Portuguese champions FC Porto despite attracting transfer interest this summer, Afrik-Foot reports.

Sanusi’s future has been uncertain since he entered the final year of his contract last month. With no agreement or advanced talks over a new deal, doubts had emerged over whether he would remain at the club beyond this summer.

There were suggestions that Porto could sell the Super Eagles left-back to avoid losing him on a free transfer when his contract expires at the end of the season.

The 29-year-old joined Porto from Santa Clara in 2020 and has played a key role in the club’s recent success. He has made 155 appearances in all competitions and completed the full 90 minutes in Porto’s 1-0 victory over Torreense in the Portuguese Super Cup last weekend, helping the club win their first trophy of the new campaign.

Sanusi has been linked with Serie A side Atalanta as well as a move to several clubs in the Premier League. However, he now looks increasingly likely to remain at Porto and could even sign a contract extension beyond next season.

According to OneFootball, Porto are open to selling fellow left-back Francisco Moura this summer. If that happens, Sanusi would become the club’s only recognized senior left-back and the first-choice option in the position, possibly bringing an end to months of speculation surrounding his future.

Sanusi: Why Porto’s decision to keep the Super Eagles star could pay off

Although keeping Sanusi could mean Porto misses out on a transfer fee before his contract expires, there are several reasons why the decision could prove beneficial.

One of the biggest reasons Porto would benefit from keeping Sanusi is his leadership and experience. The Super Eagles star is one of the longest-serving players in the current squad, and his presence could prove very important as Porto aim to defend their league title and make a stronger impact in European competitions.

With several young players in the squad, Sanusi’s experience could prove very important. Having spent six years at the club, he understands the expectations and is well placed to guide the younger members of the team.

His familiarity with the Portuguese league also makes him an important figure in the dressing room.

Another reason Porto’s decision could pay off is Sanusi’s return to top form. After suffering an ACL injury that cost him his place in the team, the Super Eagles defender gradually worked his way back to full fitness.

Although he endured a slow start after returning, he eventually regained confidence and became an important part of the squad during the second half of last season, helping Porto win the league title.

He has carried that momentum into the new campaign, producing another impressive display in the victory over Torreense, who beat Sporting CP in the cup final, in the Portuguese Super Cup.

If he maintains that level throughout the season, Sanusi could play a major role as Porto look to defend their domestic crown and challenge strongly in Europe.

The Super Eagles defender now appears set to extend his stay at Porto and could be handed an even bigger responsibility as the club begin their 2026-27 league title defence against Alverca on Sunday.