Key reason Zaidu Sanusi’s proposed Al Qadisiya transfer may fail

Super Eagles defender Zaidu Sanusi has been strongly linked with a transfer to Saudi Arabian side Al Qadisiah, Afrik-Foot reports.

​The Saudi club is eager to reinforce the left-back position, and Sanusi is at the top of their shortlist. Al Qadisiah has reportedly opened talks with FC Porto, and the Portuguese club appears willing to cash in after failing to agree on a contract extension with the defender, who has just one year remaining on his deal.

​The financial terms are appealing for the reigning Portuguese champions, who are asking for around €10 million. Although Sanusi has a €50 million release clause, a €10 million fee would represent 2.5 times the €4 million Porto paid for him in 2020.

​A move also makes sense for Sanusi, who stands to secure a substantial pay rise in Saudi Arabia. His stock remains high following a string of solid performances for Porto, and at 29 years old, this may be his best opportunity to land a lucrative contract before entering the twilight of his career.

​Nevertheless, two key factors could make Sanusi hesitate before committing to Al Qadisiah.

Porto’s Asking Price Could Complicate Matters For Zaidu Sanusi

Sanusi is entering the final year of his Porto contract, meaning Al Qadisiah could potentially negotiate a lower fee rather than simply accepting Porto’s reported €10 million valuation. They just spent €61 million on Tijjani Reijnders, so they will be frugal with their spending.

For Sanusi, the move would offer a potentially lucrative change, but Al Qadisiah must decide whether he is worth a sizeable transfer investment when they already have a left-back under contract.

So if Al Qadisiah fail to agree on a more reasonable fee with Porto — Sanusi’s proposed Saudi switch might not happen.

A Place In The Super Eagles Squad

The 2027 Africa Cup of Nations is at the end of next season, and Zaidu Sanusi will want to make the squad since he has never won the title with the Super Eagles.

However, a transfer to Saudi Arabia, would place lower in the hierarchy at the left-back position in the Super Eagles. He even risks not making the squad, as coach Eric Chelle will likely favour Europe-based players ahead of players in other continents.

Sanusi will definitely have this in his mind. At least, one more AFCON outing with Nigeria would make a lot of sense. It might just be the edition where the Super Eagles claim a fourth crown.