Daniel Banjaqui transfer news: significant 2026 update

Liverpool and Chelsea are both pursuing Benfica’s teenage right-back Daniel Banjaqui, with reports suggesting his release clause sits at roughly €38 million as the January 2027 transfer window approaches.

Daniel Banjaqui transfer news

Liverpool are reportedly well placed to challenge Chelsea for Benfica’s 18-year-old right-back Daniel Banjaqui, according to TEAMtalk. The Portugal youth international has begun featuring for Benfica’s first team and has attracted attention across Europe for his pace, defensive discipline and ability to contribute to attacking transitions.

Sources indicate Liverpool are weighing their options at right-back as Jeremie Frimpong has struggled to establish a consistent starting role. While Ronald Araujo’s loan spell has offered a short-term alternative, Liverpool are said to be unlikely to sign him permanently, leaving room for a longer-term solution such as Banjaqui.

Daniel Banjaqui profile and the reported €38m clause

Scouts have highlighted Banjaqui’s speed, one-on-one defending and recovery pace as key strengths. Benfica are reportedly keen to continue his development, and the teenager’s contract is said to include a release clause in the region of €38 million, a figure Liverpool could consider for a player with notable first-team potential.

Chelsea have also been linked with the teenager, while Arsenal and Bayern Munich are monitoring his progress, which could complicate any prospective move. Chelsea’s interest is framed around their defensive needs after another injury setback to Reece James, underscoring their urgency for reinforcements.

Context and club considerations

Securing Banjaqui would not be straightforward. Benfica’s stance appears to be focused on retention and development rather than an immediate sale. Even if the release clause can be activated, Liverpool would need to balance the financial outlay with other transfer priorities and squad planning for the season.

From Liverpool’s viewpoint, acquiring a promising young full-back aligns with a pattern of investing in talent that can be integrated into the first team over time. For Benfica, selling a bright academy graduate mid-season would be a sporting and financial decision with longer-term implications for the squad.

Transfer window timing and rival interest

The interest is being played out ahead of the January transfer window, a period when clubs reassess squads for the second half of the season. Chelsea’s parallel pursuit could prompt swifter decision-making if either club makes a formal approach. Arsenal and Bayern Munich’s monitoring adds another layer of uncertainty; early-stage interest is common, and concrete bids would more likely surface closer to January or the next summer window if Benfica remains steadfast.

What Happens Next

Expect gradual updates as scouts and analysts continue to track Banjaqui’s minutes and performances for Benfica, while Liverpool and other interested clubs assess how he might fit into their long-term plans. A January move would hinge on Benfica’s willingness to sell mid-season and whether interested parties are prepared to meet the reported release clause or negotiate an alternative agreement.

For supporters, the situation warrants watchful interest but nothing is decided. Clubs often monitor several targets simultaneously; decisive moves typically follow clearer information on player minutes, injuries at target clubs, and internal transfer priorities.

Source: Original report