Barcelona monitor Benfica teenager Daniel Banjaqui amid €40m asking price

FC Barcelona are continuing to track Benfica right-back Daniel Banjaqui, with the 18-year-old regarded by the Catalan club as a player with significant potential, according to Sport.

Banjaqui, who is of Bissau-Guinean origin, has attracted attention because of his development and long-term prospects. Barcelona have been following the defender’s progress closely, but have not yet made a formal approach to Benfica.

The Portuguese club are reported to value Banjaqui at between 35 and 40 million euros. That figure would represent a substantial investment in a player who is still developing and whose current market value is estimated at 10 million euros by Transfermarkt.

Barcelona’s decision not to act immediately is partly linked to Hansi Flick’s satisfaction with the defensive options already available to him. The German manager’s current assessment has not ended the club’s interest in Banjaqui, however, and the teenager remains under consideration.

Banjaqui’s contract with Benfica runs until June 2031, giving the Lisbon club a strong negotiating position. Barcelona must therefore decide whether to turn their interest into a bid or continue with their existing squad. The fee demanded by Benfica is expected to be an important factor in that decision.

FC Barcelona will shortly play their ninth match of the Spanish league season against Real Betis.