Liverpool have held talks over a move to sign Benfica wonderkid Daniel Banjaqui this summer ahead of some of Europe's top clubs, according to TEAMtalk.
The Reds are expected to bolster their squad once again this summer after a disappointing campaign this year, having broken the British transfer record twice and spending a record-setting £440m in the transfer window, but finding themselves battling to qualify for the Champions League next season.
But while experience and quality will be the priorities, the club are also working hard to future-proof their squad, and a deal for a top prospect has now emerged as a real possibility.
Liverpool Hold Talks to Sign Banjaqui
Liverpool manager Arne Slot
Liverpool manager Arne Slot
Banjaqui, who has been described as 'one of the most exciting prospects in world football, has grabbed the attention of the football world after breaking into the Benfica first-team under Jose Mourinho this season, despite being just 17 years of age.
The attacking right-back has shown fantastic physical attributes for his age but is also confident on the ball and strong when defending in one-against-one situations, which has seen the likes of Barcelona and Bayern Munich take a close look at his situation.
However, with the youngster set to enter the final year of his contract in Lisbon this summer, Premier League clubs are also now showing a big interest, and Liverpool are one of the sides to have spoken to intermediaries about a deal for the upcoming transfer window.
Banjaqui will turn 18 later this month, and the contract situation with Benfica has sparked urgency within the club to get him to agree to fresh terms. However, there is an acceptance that if an agreement can't be found then he will likely be sold in the summer, rather than risk losing him for nothing.
Who is Daniel Banjaqui?
Daniel Banjaqui
Liverpool have already completed a deal to sign young centre-back Jeremy Jacquet in the summer, while young defenders Mor Talla Ndiaye and Ifeanyi Ndukwe have also agreed to join.
Banjaqui would likely be one for the future more than right now, but his talent is undeniable and it would be shrewd business.
GIVEMESPORT asked ChatGPT to break down his style of play and compare him to players across Europe, and this was its response:
Daniel Banjaqui – attacking right-back for SL Benfica youth/B team; energetic, modern full-back profile.
Strong overlapping runs, high work rate, and recovery speed; comfortable supporting wide attacks.
Technically tidy in build-up; capable of progressing play and linking with wingers.
Physically developed (≈1.84m) for a full-back, aiding duels and aerial battles.
Style comparisons:Jeremie Frimpong – attacking energy and vertical runs.
Reece James – physical profile and crossing threat.
Achraf Hakimi – aggressive forward positioning.
Ceiling: dynamic two-way full-back suited to high-pressing, attacking systems.
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