Italian Serie A club Atalanta B.C. are reportedly stepping up their interest in signing Nigerian international Zaidu Sanusi as the summer transfer window approaches, with the defender emerging as one of their key defensive targets for squad reinforcement.
The Bergamo based side is believed to be monitoring Sanusi’s situation closely at Portuguese giants FC Porto, where the Super Eagles left back has spent the last few seasons building a reputation as a dependable and energetic full back in European football.
Reports from Italy suggest that Atalanta are in search of an experienced left sided defender capable of adding defensive stability, pace, and attacking support from wide areas, qualities that Sanusi is widely recognised for across European competitions.
The Nigerian defender has attracted renewed attention due to uncertainty surrounding his long term future at Porto, with his current contract situation reportedly prompting several European clubs to consider a possible summer move.
Sanusi, who is now 28 years old, has spent a significant part of his career in Portugal since joining Porto from C.D. Santa Clara in 2020. Since his arrival, he has developed into an important squad member and contributed to multiple domestic successes, including league and cup triumphs.
One of the defining moments of his career came during Porto’s title winning campaign when he scored a decisive goal against rivals S.L. Benfica, a contribution that strengthened his reputation among supporters and established him as a player capable of delivering in high pressure matches.
However, his progress has not been without challenges. Sanusi suffered a serious anterior cruciate ligament injury that kept him sidelined for an extended period, raising concerns about his long term fitness and consistency. Despite the setback, he made a strong return to competitive football and gradually regained his place in the Porto squad.
His resilience and ability to recover from injury setbacks have reportedly impressed scouts across Europe, particularly clubs looking for experienced defenders with proven mental strength and top level European experience.
Atalanta’s interest is also linked to their broader squad rebuilding plans following a demanding season in which the club aimed to remain competitive in both domestic and European competitions but faced challenges in maintaining defensive consistency.
Club officials are believed to be targeting players who can immediately strengthen the squad while also bringing experience from top European leagues, and Sanusi fits that profile due to his exposure in both Portuguese and international football.
The Italian club, known for its tactical discipline and attacking style of play under recent coaching systems, is reportedly looking to strengthen its defensive depth ahead of the new season. Sanusi’s ability to operate as a traditional left back and also contribute in advanced positions makes him a valuable tactical option.
Beyond club football, Sanusi has also established himself as a key figure in the Nigeria national football team, commonly known as the Super Eagles.
Since making his international debut in 2020, he has become a regular selection for Nigeria in major tournaments and qualification campaigns, contributing both defensively and offensively from the left flank.
He has represented Nigeria at the Africa Cup of Nations, where the Super Eagles have remained one of the continent’s strongest teams, consistently competing for honours and reaching advanced stages of the competition.
Football analysts believe Sanusi’s international experience adds significant value to his profile, especially for clubs like Atalanta that compete in both domestic leagues and European tournaments and require players with exposure to high intensity football environments.
Transfer experts suggest that Porto may be open to negotiations if a suitable offer is presented during the summer window, particularly as the club evaluates its long term squad structure and contract situations of key players.
While no official bid has been confirmed, reports indicate that Atalanta are among the most serious admirers of the Nigerian defender, with early contacts and scouting assessments already underway.
The potential transfer has generated interest among Nigerian football followers, many of whom view a move to Serie A as a positive step that could offer Sanusi a new challenge in one of Europe’s most tactical leagues.
Some supporters also believe that playing in Italy could help extend his career at the highest level, given the league’s emphasis on defensive organisation and tactical intelligence.
Others argue that remaining at Porto may provide stability and continued participation in European competitions, which could also benefit his long term development and visibility on the continental stage.
As the summer transfer window approaches, discussions surrounding Sanusi’s future are expected to intensify, with multiple clubs reportedly assessing their defensive options across Europe.
For Atalanta, signing a player of Sanusi’s experience would represent a strategic move aimed at strengthening squad depth, improving defensive balance, and increasing competitiveness ahead of a demanding season.
For the Nigerian defender, the coming weeks may prove crucial in determining whether he continues his journey in Portugal or begins a new chapter in Italian football.
