Zaidu Sanusi: Why Leeds United could lose out in race for Super Eagles & Porto star

Zaidu Sanusi remains a hot topic in the transfer rumour mills as the Nigeria international enters the final months of his contract at Porto.

Several clubs in Europe and the Middle East are reportedly interested in Sanusi but Premier League side Leeds United are believed to be leading the race for his signature.

Even at that, Leeds United could miss out on signing Sanusi after the Super Eagles defender indicated that he wants to stay at FC Porto despite interest from the Premier League club.

The Whites have been monitoring the Nigerian left-back ahead of his contract expiring in June 2027, but Porto are now in a strong position to keep him.

Leeds have made use of the free-agent market since returning to the Premier League, signing Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Lukas Nmecha last year. Daniel Farke also brought Harry Wilson to Elland Road in the summer, while the club held talks over a possible move for Julian Brandt.

Sanusi was another player Leeds hoped to sign without paying a transfer fee, but the Nigerian defender appears to have other plans.

Why Zaidu Sanusi prefers to stay at Porto despite Leeds interest

According to Correio da Manhã via YahooSports, Zaidu Sanusi wants to continue his career at Porto despite being open to a move to the Premier League.

The Portuguese club have already opened talks with the Nigerian over a contract extension that could keep him at the Estádio do Dragão until 2029.

An excellent left-back on his day, Sanusi has made 164 senior appearances for Porto since joining from Santa Clara in August 2020. He has also won eight domestic trophies, including two Primeira Liga titles.

Leeds scouts have watched him play this season, including Porto’s Champions League defeat to PSV in October. The Nigerian also made his 30th Champions League appearance when he came off the bench against Napoli last Wednesday.

However, regular playing time could be another obstacle to a move to Elland Road. Gabriel Gudmundsson will likely be ahead of Sanusi in the left-back pecking order, while Melvin Bard impressed after replacing the Swede at half-time against Tottenham.

Bard’s performance could persuade Leeds to trigger his £4.3 million buy option rather than pursue Sanusi.

With Porto keen to extend his contract and Leeds having other options at left-back, the Nigerian looks increasingly likely to stay in Portugal.