Portuguese side FC Porto are looking to offload Super Eagles defender Zaidu Sanusi this summer, even though he still has a year left on his contract.
Zaidu joined the former European champions in the 2020/21 season and made a strong start to life at the club. But a string of injuries in recent years has slowed his momentum.
He missed almost the entire campaign last season due to fitness issues, featuring in just eight matches across all competitions. That has pushed Porto’s hierarchy to seek reinforcements in the left-back position.
Although the 28-year-old is now fully fit and still under contract, the club are reportedly open to selling him this summer. Spanish side Real Oviedo are said to be among the clubs interested.
Oviedo, who are back in La Liga for the first time since the 2000/01 season, are keen to strengthen their squad with experienced players and see Zaidu as a useful addition.
While the player has remained silent on the reported interest, former Super Eagles midfielder Garba Lawal, who once served on the Nigeria Football Federation’s Technical Committee, believes Zaidu could use a fresh start to revive his form.
“Injuries have been unkind to Zaidu, even though injuries are part of the game. I heard Porto are looking to sell him, and I think it is time to also move on. He is a very good defender who can also play as a wing-back, so it should not be hard for him to find a club. But if Porto want to sell him, then he can move,” Lawal told Footy-Africa.
“I really wish he can stay in Portugal because that is where he has been basically all his career, and he speaks the language well, so it will be easier there. However, Spain and La Liga is also a fantastic option for him if the club can get the deal done. It will be a great move, playing in Spain, which is similar to Portugal. I hope he gets a move and starts playing again,” Lawal added.
Since joining Porto, Zaidu has made 128 appearances for the club, scoring seven goals and recording one assist.
