Zaidu Sanusi prefers Porto stay as Leeds United face Saudi and Qatar competition

Leeds United face competition from clubs in Saudi Arabia and Qatar for FC Porto defender Zaidu Sanusi, although the Nigerian international reportedly prefers to extend his stay in Portugal.

The 29-year-old left-back's contract expires in June 2027, potentially making him available on a free transfer next summer if an extension cannot be agreed.

Leeds have monitored Sanusi since last season, but his immediate priority is understood to be securing fresh terms with Porto, where he has spent more than six years.

Speaking to Footy-Africa, Aliyu Ibrahim, described as a confidant of Sanusi, explained that the defender is open to remaining at the Estádio do Dragão.

"Zaidu wants to remain at Porto, but it all depends on what his club can offer him in terms of a new deal," Ibrahim explained.

"His first option is to stay in Portugal because he has been there for almost ten years now."

Sanusi joined Porto from Santa Clara in 2020, having previously established himself in Portuguese football following his arrival in the country.

Injuries have disrupted parts of his career and complicated potential moves in previous transfer windows. However, his approaching contract expiry has created renewed interest in his availability.

Porto are reportedly discussing an extension, although no agreement has been announced.

Ibrahim indicated that several clubs are monitoring Sanusi's situation, with Leeds facing competition from outside Europe.

"There are at least three clubs looking at him," he said.

"Apart from the strong interest from Leeds United, there have also been approaches from Saudi Arabia and Qatar."

The identities of the interested Middle Eastern clubs have not been disclosed, and there is no confirmation of a formal offer from Leeds.

If Sanusi remains without a new contract, he would be eligible to negotiate a pre-contract agreement with foreign clubs from January.

That would create the possibility of a free transfer in July, although Porto could also consider offers during the winter window rather than risk losing him without a fee.

For now, the defender's preference to remain in Portugal represents an important obstacle for interested clubs.

Porto manager Francesco Farioli has publicly expressed confidence in the Nigerian international, suggesting he remains part of the club's plans.

"I trust him and give him opportunities, and he repays that trust with good performances," Farioli said last month.

Club president André Villas-Boas is also reportedly involved in efforts to retain the defender, with Portuguese media suggesting discussions over a longer-term agreement.

Leeds, meanwhile, already have Gabriel Gudmundsson and Melvin Bard as options on the left side of defence.

Bard is on loan from OGC Nice, with a purchase option included in his agreement. Sanusi's availability could therefore become relevant when Daniel Farke's side assess their defensive options for next season.

However, any potential move remains dependent on developments in Porto's contract negotiations.

Porto face a decision over Sanusi's future before the January transfer window, with the defender eligible to discuss a summer move abroad if no extension is agreed.

Leeds can continue assessing his availability alongside their existing left-back options, but Porto currently appear to have the advantage because Sanusi's preferred outcome is to stay.