LEEDS United's pursuit of Porto left-back Zaidu Sanusi is far from over.
premier league side Tried to sign Nigerian during January transfer window. However, the move failed when the player decided he wanted to stay at Porto and fight for his place.
Six months later, interest remains and may develop into a new effort this summer.
This is the latest case reported from Portugal. As the transfer window approaches, Leeds are again being linked with a move for the 29-year-old.
Zaidou finished the season in a far stronger position than he started, and earned the trust of Francesco Farioli after spending most of the first half of the campaign on the sidelines.
leeds united remains in the picture
Following an unsuccessful January move to Leeds United, Farioli later revealed that he had held direct talks with the player at a time when opportunities were limited, with Zhaidu Sanusi making it clear that he wanted to remain at Dragão and contribute during a crucial phase of the season.
Instead of calming down after that blow, it appears that Leeds are continuing to monitor the situation.
according to recordInterest remains strong and a concrete offer may even be received during the current transfer window.
Wolverhampton are also being mentioned again as a possible suitor. Any move for Molineux will likely depend on the wishes of new manager Cesar Peixoto. But progressing to the championship now would be quite unlikely.
The Portuguese newspaper also reports that Spanish clubs are monitoring developments, raising the possibility of widespread competition for the defender.
Contract conditions create uncertainty
While Leeds United can be encouraged by the fact that Zaidoo is once again attracting interest, Porto have to make their own decision.
The defender is entering the final year of his contract, which expires in 2027. This naturally raises the question of whether the Portuguese club should take the cash now or secure their future with a renewal.
In such a situation, if any proposal is made then it will have to be seriously considered.
The Record reports that Porto are expected to explore the possibility of a contract extension, As we covered earlier this week Following a different story. This is partly to avoid the possibility of losing the player on a free transfer.
Club president André Villas-Boas has previously criticized the handling of contract situations under the previous administration.
He pointed to high-profile departures that went on without generating transfer income. This means any move from Leeds could come at a critical moment.
Champions League factor
Zaidu's own position appears open. The report adds that he is willing to consider various scenarios, but remaining at Porto is seen as a strong possibility.
The player feels that the club values him and recognizes the role that Porto has played in his development and international career.
Porto's return to the Champions League is another important factor. The Nigerian has made 28 appearances in Europe's top competition, including 26 starts. This makes him one of the most experienced Champions League players in Porto's squad.
This experience, coupled with his improved form towards the end of last season, is expected to weigh heavily on Farioli's thinking.
So now there is a challenge for Leeds United. The club's interest still remains, but convincing Zaidu to leave Porto may prove harder now than in January, especially with Champions League football on offer again and renewal talks looming in the background.
🇨🇮Osmane Diomande | 'Bidding war continues' ➡️Chelsea and Bournemouth contacted to spoil Leeds' signing effortshttps://t.co/QU1B0QZIBh #lufc #cfc #afcb
- Sports Witness (@Sport_Witness) 18 June 2026
