West Ham United scouts are working on potential left-back options and have been impressed by FC Porto left-back, Zaidu Sanusi, according to TeamTalk.
The 26-year-old has been one of the best left full-backs in the Primeira Liga since he arrived from Santa Clara in 2020. His performances this season have drawn interest from a number of clubs with West Ham’s technical director, Tim Steidten reported to be keeping close tabs on him.
The Hammers are set to offload Aaron Cresswell who is out of favour at the London Stadium, with David Moyes opting for Emerson Palmieri as first choice left back. The Hammers have earmarked Sanusi to add depth and provide competition to Emerson at left-back.
Sanusi who is valued at €6m by transfermarkt has a contract at Estádio do Dragão until Jun 30, 2027. With Cresswell’s nine-year spell at West Ham drawing near, there’s a possibility of a potential transfer for the Nigerian international during the winter transfer window.
Bargain
Sanusi has made 118 appearances for Porto since his €4m switch from Santa Clara. Having won the Portuguese League, and Portuguese Super Cup as well as making regular appearances in the Champions League and Europa League, Sanusi possesses the perfect blend of experience and a winning mentality.
West Ham are currently competing on the domestic and European front and they’ll aim to maintain that stance ahead of next season. The Hammers currently sit in ninth position in the Premier League and they’re growing uncertainties about qualifying for a place in Europe next season.
However, one possible way is winning the Europa League having qualified for the competition by winning the Conference League last season.
It is pertinent to note that The Hammers are not just going for Sanusi to offer rotation amid the growing fixture congestion, rather Moyes is going after his huge potential as Sanusi provides defensive solidity while being able to contribute to his team’s attack.
Sanusi will likely savor the chance to join West Ham if a concrete transfer proposal is made to Porto. His physical and technical abilities greatly align with the pace and physicality of the Premier League, and is relatively low price means he will be a bargain signing for the club.
The Hammers return to Europa League action in midweek as they travel to Serbia to face Bačka Topola.
