Beni Mukendi: Villarreal eye move for Angolan Vitoria Guimaraes midfielder

Villarreal are weighing up a move for Angolan midfielder Beni Mukendi from Vitoria Guimaraes as the LaLiga club explore options to strengthen their central midfield.

Mukendi, 24, has emerged as a key figure in Liga Portugal, and Villarreal are monitoring his situation despite the player being under contract at Guimaraes until 30 June 2029. The Spanish side are understood to see the central midfielder as a potential addition this window, with his current market valuation standing at around €4m.

Born in Luanda and operating primarily as a central midfielder, Mukendi has established himself in Portugal’s top flight with Vitoria Guimaraes. He has made 88 Liga Portugal appearances, contributing one goal and six assists while amassing more than 5,500 minutes of league football, underlining his regular involvement at first-team level.

Mukendi joined Guimaraes from Casa Pia on 3 February 2025 in a deal worth €3m and has since helped the club secure the Portuguese League Cup in the 2025-26 season, the standout honour of his career to date. His progression from domestic football in Angola to a leading role in Portugal has enhanced his profile among clubs in Europe’s top leagues.

With three years still remaining on his deal and Guimaraes having invested significantly to bring him in, the Portuguese side are in a strong position in any negotiations, and Villarreal would likely need to present a compelling offer to tempt them into a sale. Mukendi remains contracted to Vitoria Guimaraes as talks and interest continue to develop.