Porto hand Leeds Zaidu transfer setback

Leeds United's pursuit of Porto defender Zaidu Sanusi has encountered a snag as Porto works on securing a new contract with the Nigerian player before the January transfer window. According to A Bola, Porto president André Villas-Boas aims to have an agreement with Sanusi before the end of December. Currently, no contract renewal is finalized, but discussions are ongoing, with the club aiming to conclude the process before Sanusi's contract expires at the end of the season.

The 29-year-old is crucial to coach Francesco Farioli, having played 10 of Porto's 16 games this season, starting eight. Sanusi, who missed nearly two months due to injury, scored against Napoli in the Champions League and bolstered Porto's attacking prowess. Leeds, currently seventh in the Premier League under Daniel Farke, are reportedly keen on a January move to secure the player and prevent competition from other clubs.

Should Sanusi remain unsigned by January, he can negotiate a pre-contract agreement with clubs outside Portugal. Aliyu Ibrahim, a confidant of the player, confirmed to Footy-Africa that Leeds has made a strong approach, with clubs from Saudi Arabia and Qatar also showing interest. Sanusi, who has been with Porto since 2020, has won two Primeira Liga titles and is comfortable in Portugal, having spoken fluent Portuguese for nearly a decade. Three clubs are actively pursuing Sanusi as his future remains uncertain.