Portugal’s league talent watch: Five African players drawing attention this season

The Portuguese league remains an important destination for African footballers, with five players in particular expected to attract close attention during the season. FC Porto’s Zaidu Sanusi, Sporting CP’s Geny Catamo, Vitoria Guimaraes duo Telmo Arcanjo and Beni Mukendi, and Estoril Praia forward Yanis Begraoui all have significant roles to play for their clubs.

Zaidu Sanusi – FC Porto

Nigeria international Zaidu Sanusi continues to provide a dependable option on the left side of the FC Porto defence. The 29-year-old is known for his strength in one-on-one duels and his disciplined approach to defensive duties.

Sanusi is under contract with the Dragons until 30 June 2027 and is currently valued at €3m by Transfermarkt. His experience could prove important as FC Porto pursue their ambitions this season.

According to exclusive information from Africafoot, Sanusi was the subject of interest from Atalanta a few months ago.

Geny Catamo – Sporting CP

Mozambique international Geny Catamo offers Sporting CP versatility and attacking energy. He can operate either as a winger or as an attacking midfielder, while his pace, direct running and creativity make him a threat in the final third.

Catamo’s ability to beat opponents in one-on-one situations will remain a key part of his appeal. Transfermarkt values him at €25m, and he is contracted to the Lisbon club until 2028.

Telmo Arcanjo – Vitoria Guimaraes

Telmo Arcanjo is another attacking player from Africa expected to be watched closely at Vitoria Guimaraes. The Cape Verde international has impressed with his technical quality, vision and willingness to contribute to the construction of attacks.

At 24, Arcanjo still has considerable room to develop. His current market value is estimated at €3m by Transfermarkt, while his contract with Vitoria Guimaraes runs until 2027.

Yanis Begraoui – Estoril Praia

Yanis Begraoui made a strong impression last season by finishing with 20 league goals for Estoril Praia. The Morocco international became one of the club’s leading attacking outlets as a result of that scoring record.

The next challenge for Begraoui is to reproduce that consistency. He is valued at €12m by Transfermarkt and remains under contract with Estoril Praia until 2028.

His performances have also reportedly attracted interest from several European clubs. Africafoot’s exclusive information has linked Begraoui with Millwall, Almeria and Le Mans.

Beni Mukendi – Vitoria Guimaraes

Beni Mukendi is an important presence in the Vitoria Guimaraes midfield, where the Angola international helps maintain the team’s balance. The defensive midfielder is noted for his energy, physical strength and ability to win back possession.

Mukendi’s work allows the Portuguese side to operate with greater stability. Transfermarkt currently values him at €4m, and his contract with Vitoria Guimaraes is due to run until 2029.

Africafoot reports that Mukendi is being monitored by Real Betis.

Together, the five players represent a range of African talent already contributing at prominent Portuguese clubs. Their current market values are listed by Transfermarkt at €3m for Sanusi, €25m for Catamo, €3m for Arcanjo, €12m for Begraoui and €4m for Mukendi.