Leeds United Chase Zaidu Sanusi in January, Porto Signal They Will Hold Firm

Leeds United do not want to lose momentum. The club's management is reportedly preparing concrete steps to sign Porto full-back Zaidu Sanusi as soon as the January transfer window opens. The interest arises because the 29-year-old's contract expires next summer, and Leeds are reluctant to watch such a golden opportunity be snatched by another club.

According to a Football Insider report cited by Pete O'Rourke, Leeds want to act quickly before the official window rolls around. The main concern is clear: if they wait until Sanusi is a free agent, the competition will be far tougher. Other clubs that may not be able to pay big in January could enter with a large wage offer at the end of the season. Leeds want to make sure they are at the front of the queue.

Sanusi is no stranger to European competition. He has experience playing in the Champions League and Europa League with Porto, something that could be an added value for Daniel Farke's squad. His flexibility is also an advantage—he can operate as a pure left-back or as a wing-back, giving Farke tactical options to change formation according to the needs of the match.

However, Leeds' path is not smooth. Porto coach Francesco Farioli has stated his desire to keep Sanusi. In a recent press conference, he revealed he had discussed the future with the player. Porto are also said to be preparing a new contract proposal, which if agreed would drastically change the negotiating landscape. Leeds must therefore be ready with an alternative scenario.

On the other hand, Leeds are also monitoring several other names. Maccabi Tel Aviv midfielder Issouf Sissokho remains on the radar after reportedly being interested in a move to Elland Road. However, Maccabi are reluctant to let him go, and his contract only expires in 2027 with an option for a one-year extension. There is also Sevilla winger Miguel Sierra, who has a £17 million release clause but is recovering from a right shoulder injury—a factor that makes the transfer risky.

Just as important, Leeds are trying to keep Dominic Calvert-Lewin. The striker has been linked with Manchester United but is expected to sign a new contract. For fans, locking in key players before the window opens is as important as bringing in new reinforcements. This is a sign that Leeds are serious about building a foundation for the long term, not just patching things up.

Indonesian context: Although it does not directly affect national football, the dynamics of Leeds' transfer activity reflect how English clubs are increasingly aggressive in securing targets early. This kind of proactive approach could be a lesson for Liga Indonesia clubs, which often move late in the transfer window, especially for players whose contracts are expiring. Speed and precision in negotiations are key in an increasingly competitive market.

The question now is: will Porto really hold on to Sanusi, or will they use the moment to get compensation before his contract expires? If Leeds succeed in signing him in January, they will not only get an experienced defender but also send a signal that the club is serious about chasing its ambitions this season. Conversely, if they fail, Farke must be ready with a plan B. The January window will be a test of Leeds management's sharpness in reading opportunities.