Leeds United’s pursuit of Porto left-back Zaidu Sanusi has not gone away.

The Premier League side tried to sign the Nigerian during the January transfer window. However, the move collapsed after the player decided he wanted to stay at Porto and fight for his place.

Six months later, the interest remains alive and could yet develop into a fresh attempt this summer.

That is the latest emerging from Portugal. Leeds are again being linked with the 29-year-old as the transfer window gathers pace.

Zaidu finished the season in a much stronger position than he started it, earning Francesco Farioli’s trust after spending much of the first half of the campaign on the fringes.

Leeds United remain in the picture

After January’s failed attempt from Leeds United, Farioli later revealed he had held direct talks with the player at a time when opportunities were limited, with Zaidu Sanusi making clear he wanted to remain at the Dragão and contribute during a crucial stage of the season.

Rather than fading away after that setback, Leeds appear to have continued monitoring the situation.

According to Record, the interest has remained firm and could even lead to a concrete proposal during the current transfer window.

Wolverhampton are also being mentioned again as a potential contender. Any move from Molineux would likely depend on the wishes of new manager César Peixoto. But a move to the Championship now would be quite unlikely.

The Portuguese newspaper also reports that clubs in Spain are keeping an eye on developments, creating the prospect of wider competition for the defender.

Contract situation creates uncertainty

While Leeds United may be encouraged that Zaidu is once again attracting interest, Porto have their own decision to make.

The defender is entering the final year of his contract, which expires in 2027. That naturally raises questions about whether the Portuguese club should cash in now or secure his future with a renewal.

In this circumstance, if an offer is made it would have to be seriously considered.

Record reports that Porto are expected to explore a contract extension, as we covered earlier this week while 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 criticised the handling of contract situations under the previous administration.

He pointed to high-profile departures that left without generating transfer income. That means any Leeds move could arrive at a delicate moment.

Champions League factor

Zaidu’s own position appears open. The report states he is willing to consider different scenarios, but remaining at Porto is viewed as a strong possibility.

The player feels valued by the club and recognises the role Porto have played in his development and international career.

Porto’s return to the Champions League is another significant factor. The Nigerian has accumulated 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.

That experience, together with his improved form towards the end of last season, is expected to weigh heavily in Farioli’s thinking.

So there is a challenge for Leeds United now. The club’s interest is still there, but convincing Zaidu to leave Porto may prove harder now than it was in January, particularly with Champions League football back on offer and renewal talks looming in the background.

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