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According to BBC Sport on Sunday, October 18, 2026, Chelsea and Liverpool are among several European clubs reportedly interested in signing Benfica's highly rated 18-year-old right-back, Daniel Banjaqui, as competition for his signature continues to grow.
The young Portuguese defender has attracted attention from several major clubs across Europe following his progress at Benfica. Juventus, Borussia Dortmund, RB Leipzig, Atletico Madrid and Roma are also monitoring his situation as they consider the possibility of bringing him into their squads.
Banjaqui is regarded as a promising young defender with the potential to develop into an important player at the highest level of European football. His progress at Benfica has placed him on the radar of clubs looking to strengthen their teams by recruiting talented young players.
Chelsea and Liverpool are both reportedly keeping an eye on the teenager as they assess their options for the future. Both Premier League clubs have been linked with the defender, although there is no confirmed indication that either side has submitted an official offer.
Chelsea have continued to invest in young players as part of their long-term squad-building strategy. The London club could view Banjaqui as a potential addition who would have the opportunity to develop and compete for a place in the first team.
Liverpool are also monitoring promising players across Europe, and the Benfica youngster could represent a long-term option at right-back if the club decides to pursue its reported interest.
However, signing the defender will not be straightforward. Benfica are known for developing young talents and giving them opportunities to progress into the senior team. The Portuguese club may therefore be reluctant to allow one of its promising prospects to leave before reaching his full potential.
The growing interest from several European sides could also make negotiations more complicated. Chelsea and Liverpool may have to compete with Juventus, Borussia Dortmund, RB Leipzig, Atletico Madrid and Roma if they decide to make formal approaches.
For now, Banjaqui remains at Benfica, and his future is uncertain. Much will depend on whether any of the interested clubs are prepared to turn their reported interest into a concrete offer.
With several teams monitoring his development, the 18-year-old right-back is likely to remain a player to watch as the January transfer window approaches.