Mourinho moves to shield 17-year-old Benfica starlet on Barcelona’s radar | OneFootball

A few days ago, reports emerged suggesting that Barcelona were closely monitoring the situation of highly-rated Benfica right-back Daniel Banjaqui, one of the club’s most exciting young prospects. 

The 17-year-old only made his senior debut this season, but his rapid rise has already drawn attention from some of Europe’s biggest clubs.

Barcelona’s interest is easy to understand, as the right-back position at the club has lacked long-term stability for years. 

Despite multiple investments and short-term fixes, Barça have struggled to find a player who can fully establish himself in the role and offer sustained competition to Jules Kounde.

The recent arrival of Joao Cancelo has helped ease the situation, but the club see that move as temporary rather than a lasting solution. 

As a result, Barcelona continue to scan the market for young, high-upside talent, which is where Banjaqui’s name entered the conversation.

Stumbling block in Barcelona’s pursuit

As such, Barcelona’s hopes of securing the teenage defender now appear to be fading. 

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Daniel Banjaqui (@_dbanjaqui_)

According to SPORT, Benfica are determined to keep hold of one of their brightest academy products. 

In fact, the report claims that Benfica manager Jose Mourinho, under whom Banjaqui made his senior debut, has made it clear that he does not want to lose the youngster.

It is said that Benfica have been working for months on renewing Banjaqui’s contract and strengthening his ties to the club. 

While talks have not yet been finalised, the ongoing discussions have only increased speculation around his future, rather than calming it. 

That said, Mourinho’s personal involvement appears to have shifted the balance.

The Portuguese coach is believed to have earned Banjaqui’s trust and played a decisive role in discouraging a move to Barcelona, as well as interest from several Premier League clubs.