Leeds United are looking to strengthen their options ahead of the second half of the season, and a familiar face from Portuguese football has emerged on their radar.
The Premier League club have identified Nigeria international Zaidu Sanusi as a potential addition, with manager Daniel Farke attracted by the defender’s experience and ability to operate in more than one position.
But Leeds’ interest carries an element of urgency. The club are understood to be considering whether to act in the January transfer window rather than wait until the end of the season, when the competition for his signature could become considerably stronger.
According to Football Insider, Leeds are concerned they could miss out on the 29-year-old if they delay their approach. Sanusi is approaching the final months of his contract with Porto, where he has spent the past six years, and is due to become a free agent next summer.
That situation could make him an attractive proposition for several clubs, prompting Farke’s side to consider an early move rather than risk losing control of the race.
Sanusi has remained an important part of Porto’s plans despite the uncertainty surrounding his future. He has made seven appearances in all competitions this season, continuing to offer the Portuguese giants an experienced option on the left side of their defence.
His European experience is another attraction. The Nigerian has featured in both the Champions League and Europa League, giving him a level of continental exposure that could appeal to a Leeds side looking to strengthen its squad for the challenges ahead.
READ MORE: Iheanacho’s 12-match run ends as Lookman, Aina and Boniface face mixed fortunes
There is also a tactical reason behind the interest. Although Sanusi is primarily a left-back, his physical attributes allow him to operate as a wing-back when required.
That flexibility fits Farke’s preference for players capable of adapting to different systems and gives the Leeds manager another option when reshaping his defensive structure.
His numbers this season have also caught attention. Sanusi has reportedly won 63 per cent of his duels, while his success rate in aerial contests stands above 66 per cent.
Those figures underline the defensive qualities Leeds believe he could bring to the team, particularly in the physical demands of English football.
The potential move also comes at a time when Farke is hoping for substantial support in the January market.
Former Manchester United chief scout Mick Brown previously told Football Insider that the German expects to be backed with a significant transfer budget by Leeds’ owners, the 49ers. Brown also suggested Farke was unhappy with some of the options available in key positions and wanted greater depth.
He believes the winter window could determine whether Leeds enjoy a brilliant season or endure a difficult one, highlighting the importance of strengthening the squad before the campaign reaches its decisive stages.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN ATHLETIC NG WHATSAPP CHANNEL NOW!
A move to England would offer the prospect of a new challenge after six years in Portugal. The attraction for Leeds is an experienced international who can provide cover and tactical flexibility, potentially without the need to wait until the summer.
Pingback: Awoniyi reveals the plan behind his first Coventry goal against Sunderland - The Athletic NG