Spanish Segunda División club Real Oviedo have opened negotiations to sign Nigerian international Zaidu Sanusi from Portuguese giants FC Porto, amid growing speculation about the defender’s future in Portugal.
Sanusi, who has struggled for regular playing time under Sérgio Conceição at Porto, is reportedly looking for a fresh start elsewhere. With two years remaining on his current contract, the 28-year-old left-back appears to have fallen out of favour and is no longer seen as a first-choice option at the Estádio do Dragão.
Porto Unwilling to Release Sanusi for Free
According to reports from Portuguese newspaper A Bola, Real Oviedo had initially hoped to secure Sanusi on a free transfer this summer. However, FC Porto are unwilling to let the player leave without financial compensation and have swiftly rejected the Spanish club’s opening approach.
The Dragons are said to value the defender, who joined them in 2020 from Santa Clara, and want to recoup some form of transfer fee despite his reduced role in the squad. Sources close to the negotiations suggest Porto are standing firm on their demands and have made it clear that a free exit is not an option.
Oviedo, who finished the 2023/24 season strongly and are now pushing for promotion to La Liga, remain keen on securing Sanusi’s signature but will need to meet Porto’s asking price to get the deal over the line.
A Tough Season for the Nigerian Defender
Sanusi endured a difficult 2024/25 campaign at FC Porto, making just six appearances in all competitions. Once a key figure in Porto’s backline, the Nigerian has faced increased competition for the left-back spot and has struggled to reclaim his starting role.
Persistent injury concerns and the emergence of other defensive options have further limited his opportunities, prompting speculation about a possible move away from the club during the current transfer window.
Despite his limited playing time, Sanusi remains a player of interest to several European clubs due to his experience, pace, and attacking capabilities from the back.
Real Oviedo’s Ambitious Summer Plans
Real Oviedo are currently building a squad capable of challenging for promotion to Spain’s top flight in the 2025/26 season. With new ownership backing and a more strategic recruitment approach, the club sees Sanusi as a player who can add top-level experience and depth to their defensive unit.
The Nigerian international, who has represented his country in both the Africa Cup of Nations and FIFA World Cup qualifiers, is seen as a valuable addition who can bring international pedigree and a winning mentality to the side.
Oviedo’s technical team believe Sanusi’s ability to transition quickly from defence to attack fits well into their tactical setup, and they are prepared to negotiate further with Porto to reach a compromise.
International Career and Transfer Market Value
Sanusi made his debut for the Super Eagles of Nigeria in 2020 and has since been a regular in the national setup, earning over 15 caps. His performances at the international level, particularly during the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations, further enhanced his reputation as one of Nigeria’s most dependable defenders.
Though his stock has dipped slightly due to his lack of game time at Porto, Sanusi is still regarded as a reliable and experienced player with several good years ahead of him.
His current market value, as estimated by leading transfer databases, is around €3 million, although Porto are reportedly open to offers slightly below that figure to facilitate the move and balance their squad.
Future Uncertain as Clock Ticks on Transfer Window
While the summer transfer window remains open for several weeks, time is of the essence for both clubs. Real Oviedo are eager to finalise their squad before the start of the new Segunda División season, while FC Porto are also working to trim their wage bill and streamline their squad ahead of a busy campaign across domestic and European competitions.
Should negotiations between Oviedo and Porto progress smoothly, Sanusi could complete his move before mid-August. Otherwise, interest from other European clubs — particularly in France and Turkey — may force a change in the transfer dynamics.
A Move That Could Revive Sanusi’s Career
For Zaidu Sanusi, a move to Real Oviedo could offer a much-needed opportunity to reignite his career after a frustrating year in Portugal. At 28, the defender still has plenty to offer and could play a key role in Oviedo’s bid to return to the Spanish top flight for the first time since 2001.
A successful stint in Spain could also boost his chances of returning to the Super Eagles’ starting XI ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers and the FIFA World Cup campaign.
Conclusion
As talks continue between Real Oviedo and FC Porto, the transfer saga involving Zaidu Sanusi is one to watch closely in the coming days. The Spanish club’s determination to land the Nigerian defender reflects their ambition, while Porto’s insistence on a transfer fee shows they still value the player’s potential market worth.
For now, Sanusi remains a Porto player, but with growing interest and a desire for more playing time, a move this summer seems increasingly likely.
By Africa Live News Sports Desk
Stay with us for more updates on African players in the European transfer market.