Barcelona, Newcastle and Manchester United are tracking Benfica defender Daniel Banjaqui, with the 18-year-old Portuguese emerging as one of the most sought-after young players in the transfer market.
According to Ekrem Konur, Barcelona view Banjaqui as a serious option to strengthen their defence. The teenager has limited experience at the highest level, but his performances and potential have already attracted interest from three major European clubs.
The Catalan club’s interest is being challenged by two Premier League sides. Newcastle and Manchester United are also following Banjaqui closely as they look to identify and secure promising talent before his reputation grows further.
No formal offer has been made by any of the three clubs at this stage. However, a three-way contest could develop if Barcelona, Newcastle or Manchester United decide to act, potentially creating a bidding situation for the Benfica player.
For Benfica, the interest comes as no surprise. The Lisbon club has long placed youth development at the centre of its strategy and regularly sees academy products attract attention from leading European teams.
That record gives Benfica a strong negotiating position. The Portuguese club has no need to sell Banjaqui cheaply, meaning any side determined to sign him will have to submit a proposal capable of convincing the club to part with one of its highly regarded young players.
The defender’s situation will be watched closely as Benfica prepare to face Omonia Nicosia in their third match of the Europa League. The match is listed with Benfica at 1,30 to win, while the draw is priced at 4,50 and an Omonia Nicosia victory at 6,60.
