Super Eagles: 2 qualities Zaidu Sanusi could offer Leeds United

Leeds United could revive their interest in Super Eagles defender Zaidu Sanusi as they look to strengthen their defensive options ahead of the January transfer window.

Sanusi has been a long-term transfer target for the Premier League club and was close to leaving FC Porto last summer. However, the Nigerian defender remained in Portugal despite entering the final year of his contract.

The 29-year-old has been with Porto since 2020 and has established himself as an important member of the squad, going on to play a key role in their Primeira Liga title triumph last season, which was his second league title with the club.

However, an injury disrupted his progress during the early stages of the current campaign, although he has since returned to action and is already attracting renewed interest from Leeds, who are reportedly considering him as an option to improve their defence.

According to reports from Foot-Africa, the Premier League side are keen on strengthening in the winter transfer window and will be hoping to add Sanusi to their backline, given the qualities the Super Eagles star can bring to elevate their team.

2 qualities that makes Zaidu Sanusi a good option for Leeds United

1. His attacking qualities from left-back

One of Sanusi’s biggest strengths is his ability to contribute in the attacking third while operating as a left-back.

The Super Eagles defender has pace and stamina, allowing him to make overlapping runs and provide an additional attacking option down the left flank.

His ability to carry the ball forward, support wingers and deliver crosses into the box could give Leeds another dimension in their attacking play.

Sanusi is also comfortable making forward runs beyond his teammates, which can help create space and give opponents another threat to deal with.

His speed and willingness to get forward could make him an interesting option for Farke, especially in games where Leeds need more attacking support from their full-backs.

2. His wealth of experience 

Another quality that could make Sanusi valuable to Leeds is his experience at the highest level of football, including in European competitions.

The Super Eagles defender has spent several seasons with Porto, one of Portugal’s biggest clubs, and has regularly competed in demanding domestic and European competitions.

He has also experienced the pressure of playing for a club expected to challenge for major honours, having been part of Porto’s league-winning teams.

His contribution to last season’s Primeira Liga triumph further demonstrates his ability to perform in a competitive environment.

That experience could be important for Leeds, especially as they look to establish themselves in the Premier League and improve their defensive options.

Sanusi would not be arriving as an inexperienced player who needs time to understand the demands of top-level football. Instead, he could bring valuable experience and provide competition for the existing options at left-back.

Porto could face major decision on Super Eagles star

Leeds could attempt to secure Sanusi’s signature when the January transfer window opens, but completing a deal may not be straightforward.

Porto may be reluctant to lose one of their important players midway through the season, especially given his contribution to their success.

However, his contract situation could complicate matters. With Sanusi entering the final months of his deal, Porto may prefer to sell him in January rather than risk losing him for free next summer if he does not agree to an extension.

For Leeds, that could present an opportunity to finally land a long-term target, although much will depend on Porto’s willingness to negotiate and the Nigerian’s own intentions.