Zaidu Sanusi: What we know from Leeds interest Nigerian defender

Super Eagles defender Zaidu Sanusi is garnering interest from Leeds United as the Whites are considering the possibility of a cut-price January transfer amidst unresolved contract issues with FC Porto.

According to Football Insider, the Premier League club are hoping to secure a deal for the 29-year-old left-back when the winter transfer window opens in January 2027.

Sanusi has been on Leeds’ radar across the last two transfer windows, but his contract, which is due to expire at the end of the 2026-27 season, makes a January move more attractive for Daniel Farke’s side.

The report suggests Leeds believe a deal could be straightforward if Porto do not propose a new contract with the Nigerian in the coming months. However, no completed agreement or official bid has been confirmed.

Why Leeds United want Zaidu Sanusi

Leeds are looking to increase competition for left-back Gabriel Gudmundsson, who joined the club in 2025. Sanusi’s experience in Portugal and European competition is viewed as an added advantage.

The Nigerian has spent six years at Porto since arriving from Santa Clara in 2020 and is now in his seventh season with the Portuguese giants. He has made 29 UEFA Champions League appearances and 14 Europa League appearances, giving him considerable experience at the highest level of European football.

His opportunities were limited last season, when he made 11 league starts. However, he has started five games for Francisco Farioli’s side this season, before he picked up an adductor problem.

Will Porto allow Sanusi to leave?

Porto’s position could determine whether Leeds can turn their interest into a concrete move. With Sanusi’s contract entering its final months, the Portuguese club risks losing him for nothing if he leaves when his deal expires.

However, Porto have previously shown an interest in retaining the defender. In June, they opened contract talks amid interest from Leeds and Atalanta.

Sanusi also turned down a Premier League opportunity during the January 2026 transfer window to remain at Porto and fight for his place, according to manager Francesco Farioli.

That decision paid off as the Nigerian worked his way back into contention. Whether he is now willing to reconsider a move to England remains unclear.

For Leeds, January could provide an opportunity to recruit an experienced left-back at a reduced cost, but until Porto’s contract negotiations and the clubs’ discussions become clear, Leeds interest in Sanusi remains a transfer possibility rather than a done deal.