Leeds United Eye Free 29-Year-Old Defender: Is He Right For Farke?

Leeds United Eye Free 29-Year-Old Defender: Is He Right For Farke? Leeds United have focused on building a settled Premier League squad under Daniel Farke, but next summer’s contract decisions could dictate their recruitment plans. With the winter window approaching, the club must consider their left-back options and identify potential signings before rivals enter the market. Gabriel Gudmundsson has made six appearances this season and provided one assist, giving Farke a reliable option at left-back. However, Melvin Bard has played only once, and his contract expires in June 2027. Leeds therefore have a reason to explore alternatives, although any new arrival must offer more than additional cover. Farke might need a left-back who can defend reliably while supporting the team’s possession play and attacking transitions. That balance is important because Leeds must strengthen their options without disrupting the current structure, particularly if Bard leaves next summer. Leeds United lead chase of Porto defender According to Sport Witness , Leeds have maintained their interest in Porto left-back Zaidu Sanusi, whom they considered signing after promotion in 2025. The 29-year-old Nigerian could negotiate a pre-contract agreement with overseas clubs from January because his current deal expires next summer. Porto manager Francesco Farioli wants to retain Sanusi and has urged the club to secure a contract extension. Speaking about their discussions, Farioli said he trusts the defender and values his performances, although he acknowledged that January remains some distance away. Sanusi has made eight appearances across competitions this season, including five Primeira Liga matches. He started four league games, played 376 minutes, recorded 84% passing accuracy and completed 15 clearances, while winning 63.2% of his defensive duels. Those figures prove that he contributes through defensive work, although they offer limited evidence of his ability to support Leeds’ possession game. Should Leeds United pursue Sanusi on a free transfer? COIMBRA, PORTUGAL – AUGUST 01: Zaidu Sanusi of FC Porto in action during the Portuguese Super Cup match between FC Porto and SCU Torreense at Estadio Cidade de Coimbra on August 1, 2026 in Coimbra, Portugal. (Photo by Gualter Fatia/Getty Images) A pre-contract agreement would protect Leeds from a transfer fee, but wages and signing costs would still affect the deal. Sanusi’s experience and recovery pace could strengthen their defensive options, particularly if Bard leaves next summer. However, Leeds should assess his technical suitability before committing a significant salary. Sanusi offers defensive strength, yet Farke needs full-backs who can support possession and create passing options under pressure. His reported 76% Champions League passing accuracy raises questions about that side of his game, although the figure alone cannot establish his overall suitability. Leeds United should continue scouting Sanusi while comparing younger alternatives with stronger attacking qualities. If Porto cannot agree a renewal, the Nigerian’s availability could offer value, but a low transfer cost means little if he cannot contribute consistently in Farke’s system or his wages restrict other recruitment plans.