Zaidu Sanusi: Could Porto’s decision block Atalanta and Leeds United’s transfer plans?

Super Eagles defender Zaidu Sanusi could extend his stay at Portuguese champions FC Porto amid growing interest from Atalanta and Leeds United ahead of the summer transfer window, Afrik-Foot reports.

The 29-year-old’s future had appeared uncertain in recent months as he entered the final stages of his current contract, with several European clubs monitoring his situation ahead of the new season.

Sanusi joined Porto from Santa Clara in 2020 and quickly established himself as an important member of the squad. One of the standout moments of his career came during the 2021-22 season when he scored the late winner against Benfica in a 1-0 victory that effectively secured the Portuguese league title for Porto.

However, his fortunes changed in the years that followed. A series of injury setbacks disrupted his progress, and he gradually lost his place in the team. The most significant blow came in 2024 when he suffered an ACL injury that kept him sidelined for almost a year.

The Super Eagles defender was linked with an exit from the club last summer, although he opted to remain at Porto and fight for his place. 

It eventually paid off as he played an important role in helping them beat Benfica and Sporting CP to win another league title last season and he now faces another important decision regarding his future as the summer transfer window approaches.

Porto move to secure Zaidu Sanusi’s future

According to reports, Porto have prioritized extending the contract of Super Eagles star Zaidu Sanusi this summer, amid growing interest from several other clubs.

His current deal is due to expire at the end of the 2026-27 season, and Porto are eager to avoid a situation where he enters the final year of his contract without a long-term agreement in place. 

The Portuguese champions have watched several players leave on free transfers in recent years and are determined not to repeat the same mistake with one of their most experienced squad members.

Sanusi is preparing to enter his seventh season at Porto and has become one of the senior figures in the dressing room. The club’s return to the UEFA Champions League, as well as the Nigerian defender’s contributions during their successful title-winning campaign, has shown why he remains an important part of the squad.

What this means for Atalanta and Leeds United’s pursuit

Serie A side Atalanta have expressed interest in signing Zaidu Sanusi this summer and were the first team to approach Porto about a potential transfer.

Meanwhile, Premier League side Leeds United have also revived their pursuit of the Super Eagles defender.

Leeds came close to signing Sanusi last season when he was struggling to regain a regular place in Porto’s starting lineup. Although a move appeared possible at the time, the transfer never materialized and the Nigerian defender remained in Portugal.

The Whites are still keen to strengthen their defence with experienced players ahead of their next season in the English top-flight, and Sanusi remains very high on their priority list.

However, Porto’s decision to open contract talks have now dealt a major blow to both Atalanta and Leeds United’s plans this summer and they could now be forced to try out alternative targets.

For now, Sanusi is set to extend his stay at Porto beyond this summer and will now be aiming to help them defend their league crown and make a stronger impact in the UEFA Champions League next season.