Chelsea and Liverpool are reportedly keen on signing 17-year-old Portuguese right-back Daniel Banjaqui from SL Benfica in the summer transfer window.

According to a report by A Bola, as relayed by Sport Witness, Daniel Banjaqui is the subject of interest from Chelsea. The Blues are keen on reinforcing their defensive unit by signing a centre-back in the summer transfer window. So, the 17-year-old SL Benfica right-back prodigy has emerged as a target for the West London club.

Chelsea will not be alone in the battle for Banjaqui’s signature, with Liverpool also vying for his services heading into the summer transfer window. Meanwhile, a summer move may not be cost-effective, as the teenage prospect’s release clause will increase from €30 million to €80 million once he signs a new contract with Benfica, with the two parties already having an agreement.

Who is Daniel Banjaqui?

Daniel Banjaqui is the latest promising prospect to rise in prominence in his homeland. Born in Lisbon, the youngster has spent his formative years thus far in Portugal, starting his youth career with Real Formacao before joining SL Benfica in July 2018. The 17-year-old has rapidly risen through the ranks at the Primeira Liga club, and he has already made his senior bow.

The teenage sensation has made three appearances for Benfica thus far, amassing 155 minutes of game time. Meanwhile, Banjaqui’s progress has not gone unnoticed, capturing the attention of several high-profile clubs. Chelsea and Liverpool are among the prospective suitors vying for the Portuguese right-back prodigy’s signature heading into the summer transfer window.

Premier League move on the horizon?

Daniel Banjaqui has been on Liverpool’s wishlist for a long time. The continued interest makes sense, even though Arne Slot has two right-backs in his squad. However, Conor Bradley and Jeremie Frimpong have struggled with fitness issues this season, and Calvin Ramsay has not earned the Liverpool manager’s trust. So, Banjaqui is an option worth considering.

As for Chelsea, it is unclear why the Blues want to sign the teenage sensation in the summer transfer window. Reece James and Malo Gusto have been exceptional right-backs for the West London club in recent seasons, and the former has overcome his fitness issues this term. So, it is unclear how Banjaqui fits into the scheme of things at Chelsea.

However, that has never stopped Chelsea from hoarding young prospects, and they will compete with Liverpool for the Benfica prodigy’s signature. Meanwhile, a summer move may not be cost-effective, as the teenage prospect’s release clause will increase from €30 million to €80 million once he signs a new contract with Benfica, with the two parties already having an agreement.