Leeds United scouts watch Porto clash as Zaidu Sanusi transfer opportunity emerges

Leeds United reportedly sent a representative to Porto's Champions League meeting with PSV Eindhoven on Tuesday, with two players previously linked to the Whites involved in the fixture.

Portuguese newspaper A Bola is cited as reporting Leeds' presence at the Estádio do Dragão, where PSV secured a 1-0 victory.

Porto left-back Zaidu Sanusi and PSV's versatile defender Mauro Júnior have both been linked with Daniel Farke's side, although there is no confirmation that either was the subject of the reported scouting visit.

Leeds have been linked with Sanusi throughout 2026.

In March, Sport Witness reported that the Yorkshire club had attempted to sign the Nigeria international during the January transfer window, but the defender chose to remain at Porto.

The 29-year-old was subsequently linked with Leeds again in June, when reports from Portugal suggested Porto were considering changes to their left-back options.

Sanusi's contract reportedly expires in June 2027, meaning he is approaching the final six months of his existing deal.

If no extension is agreed, the January transfer window would provide Porto with a final conventional opportunity to negotiate a transfer fee before his contract expires.

There is no indication that Leeds have renewed their approach for the defender.

PSV's Mauro Júnior is another player previously linked with a move to Elland Road.

Sport Witness reported in May, citing Dutch publication Voetbal International, that Leeds had made enquiries with the Brazilian's representatives.

The 27-year-old can operate at left-back or in midfield, offering versatility across several positions.

PSV were reportedly keen to retain Mauro Júnior at the time, and no subsequent agreement with Leeds was announced.

His presence in Tuesday's Champions League fixture provides a further connection to the club's previous recruitment activity, although it does not establish that Leeds were monitoring him.

Gabriel Gudmundsson remains an established option at left-back for Leeds, while Melvin Bard joined from OGC Nice on a season-long loan in September.

The French defender's agreement includes an option to make the move permanent.

The Yorkshire Evening Post reported that Leeds paid a €1million loan fee and can sign Bard permanently for €5m.

That arrangement gives Leeds an existing option to strengthen their long-term defensive resources without pursuing another player.

Meanwhile, A Bola's reported scouting attendance list included several major European clubs, although the identities of the players being assessed were not established.

Sanusi's reported contract expiry in June 2027 could become relevant when the January transfer window opens.

Leeds also have the option to make Bard's move from Nice permanent, although no decision has been announced.

There is currently no confirmation that Leeds have renewed negotiations for Sanusi or Mauro Júnior following the reported scouting visit.