In a move that has stunned fans across Europe, Nigerian international and FC Porto left-back Zaidu Sanusi is reportedly set to leave the Portuguese giants and sign a whopping 8-year contract with FC Barcelona, one of the longest and most unexpected deals in recent memory.
A Bombshell Move in the Transfer Market
Sources close to the deal reveal that negotiations between Barcelona and Porto have progressed rapidly over the last week, with Sanusi now on the verge of finalizing terms. The proposed 8-year contract is not only rare in modern football but signals the Catalan club’s deep faith in the 26-year-old defender’s long-term potential.
This move comes as Barcelona look to rebuild their defensive line with younger, more dynamic players after a season filled with inconsistency and injury woes at the back.
FC Porto Caught Off Guard
Sanusi, who has been a consistent performer for FC Porto since joining from Santa Clara in 2020, still had time left on his contract. However, the size and scope of Barcelona’s offer, reportedly including performance-based incentives and a significant salary bump, appear to have made the move irresistible for both the player and his representatives.
Porto fans are devastated, with many expressing disbelief on social media at the sudden departure of a player considered key to their defensive stability. Club officials are said to be scrambling to identify a replacement, but insiders admit the timing and length of the contract offer from Barça left them powerless.
A Risky But Bold Gamble for Barcelona
While Sanusi brings pace, tenacity, and experience in European competitions, critics have raised eyebrows at the 8-year deal, calling it a high-risk investment. Long-term contracts are rare in the modern game due to injury risks and performance volatility. If the move fails to pay off, Barcelona could be left burdened with a lengthy commitment to a player who may not meet expectations.
However, Barcelona’s management sees Sanusi as a solution to their persistent left-back issues—a physically strong, defensively reliable option with room to grow under Xavi’s system.
What This Means for Sanusi and Nigerian Football
For Sanusi, the transfer represents a career-defining moment. Moving from Portugal to one of football’s biggest stages is a massive leap—and a testament to his progress over the past few seasons. His rise from modest beginnings in Nigerian football to one of Europe’s elite clubs is nothing short of inspirational.
The move is also a major win for Nigerian football, with another Super Eagles player set to represent a European powerhouse. It adds to the growing list of Nigerian stars making waves in Europe’s top five leagues.
Official Announcement Imminent
While both clubs are yet to issue formal confirmations, multiple reputable sources report the deal is in its final stages, pending medicals and contract signing. An official unveiling is expected in the coming days at Camp Nou.
If completed, Zaidu Sanusi’s switch from FC Porto to FC Barcelona on an 8-year deal will go down as one of the boldest and most surprising transfers of the year—one that could reshape both clubs’ futures and write a new chapter in the Nigerian star’s promising career.
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