Daniel Banjaqui: Leipzig linked with Benfica and Portugal defender

Portugal and Guinea-Bissau defender Daniel Banjaqui, currently with Benfica, has been linked with a move to Bundesliga side Leipzig.

The 18-year-old right-back joined Benfica’s first-team squad from Benfica B in July 2026 and is under contract until 30 June 2031. His market value is listed at €10m.

Banjaqui has made two Liga Portugal appearances this season, alongside three outings in Liga Portugal 2 and one in the Europa League. He started all three of his matches in the second tier and has also featured in Benfica’s European campaign.

The defender came through Benfica’s academy after joining from Real Formacao as a youth player. He was part of the Portugal Under-17 side that won the Under-17 World Cup and European Under-17 Championship in 2025.

A move to Leipzig would represent a switch from Liga Portugal to the Bundesliga, although the rumour does not indicate that an agreement has been reached or provide a proposed transfer fee. Banjaqui remains a Benfica player, with his long-term contract extending through the end of the 2030-31 season.