Super Eagles left back Zaidu Sanusi has categorically denied reports linking him with a summer move to English Championship side Leeds United, calling the claims “a lie.” The FC Porto defender, who is currently working to regain full fitness following an ACL injury, dismissed rumours that he had received or was negotiating a four-year contract with Leeds.
The initial report suggested that Leeds were preparing a €2 million offer for Zaidu, a figure that raised eyebrows given his €50 million release clause and Porto’s reputation for high value sales. The Portuguese giants had previously offloaded fringe player Chidozie Awaziem for €5 million more than twice the alleged bid for Zaidu.
In an interview with allnigeriasoccer.com, Zaidu firmly stated, “I am not in contact with Leeds United or any team right now. I am not negotiating with Leeds United and I have not been offered a four year contract. They lied about it.”
Signed from Santa Clara in August 2020, the Nigerian international is under contract with Porto until June 2027. He has been working to regain his spot in the first team after suffering a serious knee injury shortly after returning from the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations. Due to limited game time, he was left out of Nigeria’s squad for the March World Cup qualifiers.
Editorial
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Zaidu Sanusi’s firm response to speculation is a breath of fresh air in the age of clickbait and rumour-driven transfer gossip. It’s easy to see how a €2 million bid for a player with a €50 million release clause would be treated with scepticism. But what’s more concerning is how such unfounded reports continue to circulate without verification.
Zaidu’s situation is delicate. He’s coming off a long-term injury, fighting for his place at one of Europe’s top clubs, and aiming to reclaim his role as Nigeria’s undisputed first-choice left-back. The last thing he needs is unnecessary distractions manufactured by dubious transfer stories.
His decision to speak out directly shows maturity and clarity. It’s a reminder that players, too, are stakeholders in the football narrative. If this statement does anything, it should encourage both fans and media outlets to place a premium on credibility and respect for professional careers.
As he works toward full recovery, Zaidu deserves the focus to be on his return to form—not fictional links that do little more than stir unfounded excitement. For Nigeria and Porto, a fit and focused Zaidu is far more valuable than any headline he didn’t sign up for.
Did You Know?
- Zaidu Sanusi scored the winning goal in Porto’s 2022 league title decider against Benfica, sealing the championship in stoppage time.
- Porto inserted a €50 million release clause in Zaidu’s contract extension in October 2022.
- Zaidu was previously named in the UEFA Champions League Team of the Week after a standout performance against Marseille in 2020.
- The defender has earned over 15 caps for Nigeria and made his debut for the Super Eagles in 2020.
- Leeds United were relegated from the Premier League in 2023 and are currently pushing for promotion back to the top flight.
