André Villas-Boas fighting to stop January transfer to Leeds United

Porto in talks to renew Zaidu Sanusi's contract before December to block Leeds' January move for the Nigerian left-back.

Leeds United have been monitoring Porto left-back Zaidu Sanusi, with his contract expiring next June making him an attractive January target at a reduced fee or potentially free in summer. However, Porto are now working to tie the 29-year-old down to a new contract before the end of December, hoping to reach an agreement with his representatives before the transfer window opens.

Porto president André Villas-Boas' administration has made avoiding free departures a priority, particularly with Sanusi entering the final six months of his deal. If no renewal is agreed by December, the defender will be free to negotiate a pre-contract with clubs outside Portugal, giving Leeds a clear path to secure him without a transfer fee.

Manager Francesco Farioli has publicly praised Sanusi's performances and the trust he's built with the coaching staff, but has been careful not to make promises about January. For Leeds, the uncertainty remains their only encouragement—Porto have yet to convince Sanusi to sign.