**Arsenal, Manchester City, Liverpool, Chelsea and Crystal Palace are tracking Benfica right-back Daniel Banjaqui. The teenager’s rapid rise has begun to attract serious attention across Europe.**
The 18-year-old has been building momentum quietly within Benfica’s system, which is what will have caught the attention of Arsenal, Manchester City, Liverpool, Chelsea and Crystal Palace. He has featured regularly for Benfica B this season and also played in the UEFA Youth League, a competition the club consistently uses to fast-track elite prospects.
Banjaqui’s output has started to match the hype. Operating as an attacking full-back, he has contributed 2 goals and 4 assists in 21 appearances across Benfica B and youth competitions this season. In addition, his minutes have steadily increased, which suggests growing trust from the coaching staff.
Those numbers only tell part of the story. His profile stands out because of his ability to carry the ball and create from wide areas. According to data from platforms such as FBref, he ranks highly among Benfica B defenders for progressive carries and touches in the final third.
That combination – end product and progression – explains why clubs in England are paying attention. Benfica have a long track record of developing full-backs who move on for significant fees, and Banjaqui appears to be next in line.
Premier League interest emerges
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That broader context makes the latest update from Portugal particularly relevant.
[**Correio da Manhã**](https://www.cmjornal.pt/portugal) report that Arsenal, Manchester City, Liverpool, Chelsea and Crystal Palace are all following the defender closely. Clubs from Spain, Germany and Italy are also in the picture, while Paris Saint-Germain have made initial enquiries.
We covered in early March that [**Liverpool and Chelsea**](https://sportwitness.co.uk/liverpool-and-chelsea-in-mix-to-sign-e80m-clause-benfica-player/) were already tracking him. So now facing that level of interest, Benfica have moved quickly to secure his future.
Daniel Banjaqui’s decision and Benfica plan
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Daniel Banjaqui has decided to stay at Benfica and continue his development, even after attracting interest from across Europe.
The Portuguese outlet explains that an agreement is in place for a contract until 2031, with a release clause set at €80m (£69m). The deal is expected to be formalised once he returns from international duty with Portugal’s Under-21 side.
Importantly, the project presented to him goes beyond financial terms. Benfica have outlined a clear pathway into the first team for the 2026/27 season.
There is also a structural reason why that opportunity could arrive quickly. The club are open to selling Alexander Bah or Amar Dedic, which would create space at right-back.
In addition, the presence of José Mourinho has played a role. The teenager reportedly values the chance to develop under him.
What happens next
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Daniel Banjaqui’s decision reflects a familiar Benfica pattern. The club retain control early, develop the player further, and only sell when value peaks.
For Premier League clubs, this becomes a longer-term watch rather than an immediate opportunity. However, the level of interest already suggests he is firmly on their radar.
If his progression continues and he establishes himself in the first team, the current attention from England is likely to intensify rather than fade.
Arsenal, Manchester City, Liverpool, Chelsea and Crystal Palace may find the competition grows even more.