Leeds United’s search for defensive reinforcements during the January transfer window included a move for Porto full-back Zaidu Sanusi, according to fresh comments from inside the Portuguese club.
The Nigerian defender ultimately rejected the opportunity to move to England, choosing instead to remain at Porto and compete for his place. However, the approach provides a clearer indication of the type of player Leeds were targeting in the market.
Sanusi has been with Porto since 2020 after joining from Santa Clara in a deal worth around €4m. Over the past several seasons he has accumulated more than 120 appearances for the Portuguese side across domestic and European competitions.
Porto manager confirms Premier League interest in Zaidu Sanusi
Details of Leeds United’s approach emerged through Portuguese newspaper O Jogo following comments from Porto head coach Francesco Farioli.
The manager explained that Sanusi had a genuine opportunity to leave during the January window, with interest arriving from the Premier League. Wolverhampton Wanderers were also mentioned among the clubs monitoring the defender.
Farioli addressed the topic while explaining why the left-back had not featured in recent league matches against Sporting CP and Benfica. According to the coach, those decisions were related to squad management rather than any issue with the player.
“He had a good opportunity to move to the Premier League in January,” Farioli explained. — O Jogo
The Porto coach revealed he held a direct conversation with the defender regarding his future during the winter transfer window.
“I had a conversation with him about what he wanted because he didn’t have many minutes in the first part of the season. His response was clear. He said he was happy to stay and have a role in the team.” — Francesco Farioli
What Leeds United’s interest reveals about recruitment plans
The attempted move highlights the type of defensive profile Leeds United were exploring during the January window.
Sanusi offers physical strength, pace and experience at European level, having played regularly in both the Champions League and Europa League with Porto. Those attributes make him a reliable option capable of adapting to high-intensity leagues.
From the last few months of Leeds United’s campaign, the club’s recruitment strategy appears focused on adding players who can contribute immediately rather than purely long-term prospects.
However, it remains too early to determine whether Sanusi could reappear as a target in the future.
Key Insights
- Leeds United attempted to sign Porto left-back Zaidu Sanusi in January.
- The Nigerian defender rejected the chance to move to the Premier League.
- Porto manager Francesco Farioli confirmed the opportunity existed.
- Sanusi has since regained playing time in recent league matches.
- The defender remains under contract with Porto until 2027.
What’s Next
With Sanusi choosing to remain at Porto, Leeds United will continue evaluating defensive options ahead of the summer transfer window. Recruitment priorities may shift depending on squad needs and potential departures.
For Porto, the defender is expected to remain part of the rotation for the remainder of the season as the club competes in domestic competitions.
If Sanusi continues to gain minutes and maintain his form, Premier League interest could emerge again in future windows. Much will depend on his role at Porto and whether clubs like Leeds revisit similar targets.
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