Arsenal, Manchester City, Liverpool, Chelsea and Crystal Palace are keeping an eye on Benfica right-back Daniel Banzaqui. The rapid growth of adolescents has begun to attract serious attention throughout Europe.
The 18-year-old has been quietly building momentum in Benfica's system, which will have attracted the attention of Arsenal, Manchester City, Liverpool, Chelsea and Crystal Palace. He has featured regularly for Benfica B this season and has also played in the UEFA Youth League, a competition the club consistently uses to hone elite prospects.
Banzaqui's output is beginning to match the hype. Operating as an attacking full-back, he has contributed 2 goals and 4 assists in 21 appearances in Benfica B and youth competitions this season. Additionally, his minutes have steadily increased, which reflects the growing confidence of the coaching staff.
Those numbers tell only part of the story. His profile stands out due to his ability to carry the ball and create from wide areas. According to statistics from platforms such as FBref, he ranks highly among Benfica B defenders for progressive carries and touches in the final third.
That combination – the end product and the progress – explains why clubs in England are paying attention. Benfica have a long track record of developing full-backs who move for significant fees, and Banzaqui appears to be next in line.
Interest in Premier League emerged
That broader context makes Portugal's latest update particularly relevant.
morning mail Report Arsenal, Manchester City, Liverpool, Chelsea and Crystal Palace are all closely following the defender. Clubs from Spain, Germany and Italy are also in the picture, while Paris Saint-Germain have made preliminary enquiries.
We covered it in early March liverpool and chelsea Were already keeping an eye on him. So now faced with that level of interest, Benfica have moved quickly to secure his future.
Daniel Banzaqui's decision and the Benfica plan
Despite attracting interest from across Europe, Daniel Banzaqui has decided to stay at Benfica and continue his development.
The Portuguese outlet reports that there is an agreement in place for a contract until 2031, with the release clause set at €80m (£69m). The deal is expected to be formalized after he returns from international duty with the Portugal under-21 team.
The important thing is that the project presented before them goes beyond financial point of view. Benfica have outlined a clear route into the first team for the 2026/27 season.
There is also a structural reason why that opportunity may come sooner. The club is ready to sell Alexander Bah or Amar Dedic, who would create a space at right-back.
Furthermore, the presence of Jose Mourinho has played a role. The teen reportedly values the opportunity to develop under him.
what happens next
Daniel Banzaqui's decision reflected the familiar Benfica pattern. The club retains control early, develops the player further, and only sells when the value has peaked.
For Premier League clubs, this becomes a long-term monitor rather than an immediate opportunity. However, the level of interest already suggests he is firmly on their radar.
If his progress continues and he establishes himself in the first team, the current England focus is likely to increase rather than decrease.
The competition could increase even more between Arsenal, Manchester City, Liverpool, Chelsea and Crystal Palace.
