In a recent report, O Jogo stated that West Ham United are showing interest in Porto full-back Zaidu Sanusi. It has been mentioned that the Hammers are eyeing a move to acquire the services of the Nigerian defender.
Zaidu’s Impressive Form In Portuguese Football
Zaidu has managed to produce a few decent displays on the left side of Porto’s defence. The 26-year-old has made six appearances for the Portuguese outfit this season, scoring one goal in the process across all competitions.
The Nigerian sensation has been a reliable performer on the left flank based on his average of 1.0 tackles, 1.0 interceptions, 0.7 clearances, 1.7 key passes and 1.0 dribbles per 90 minutes in Liga Portugal. However, he has lacked quality when distributing possession from the wide areas based on his pass success rate of 64.9% in the top tier of Portuguese football (stats via whoscored).
His current contract at the Portuguese club will run out in the summer of 2027. Thus, West Ham will have to make a sizable offer if they are serious about recruiting the Porto talent next year.
What Will Zaidu Add To West Ham United Boss David Moyes’ Side?
Zaidu is a good tackler of the ball and can time his challenges well to secure the ball back for his team inside his half. He doesn’t mind clearing his lines when required and has got the eye to play a few decisive passes from the left wing.
The Nigerian left-back is a decent dribbler with the ball as well. However, he has to find a way to improve his ball distribution if he wants to taste success at the highest level.
We can expect Zaidu to add more quality and depth to West Ham United boss David Moyes’ squad. He has what it takes to challenge for a regular starting spot at the London Stadium. However, the East London club should only move in for him if they are planning to play him regularly in the coming seasons.
At 26, Zaidu is about to enter his prime soon which makes him a worthy target for the Hammers to pursue this January or at the end of this campaign. However, only time will tell whether he can make a smooth transition to life in Premier League football.
