Benfica target 15-year-Old Moroccan talent Zakariya Essanoussi

Benfica Lisbon have set their sights on 15-year-old Moroccan forward Zakariya Essanoussi, who continues to impress in the youth ranks of Helmond Sport.

The young striker has become one of the standout performers in the Dutch side’s Under-17 team this season, earning attention from several top European clubs.

Essanoussi, who previously developed at PSV’s academy, has displayed exceptional consistency and flair in front of goal.

His performances for Helmond Sport’s Under-17 side have made him a regular match-winner, cementing his reputation as one of the most promising young prospects in Dutch football.

Benfica have emerged as the frontrunners in the race to secure his signature. Reports suggest the Portuguese giants recently invited Essanoussi to a training camp in Lisbon, giving the coaching staff a closer look at his technical abilities and composure under pressure.

The club’s recruitment team wants to evaluate the Moroccan youngster firsthand before finalising a potential deal.

Sources close to Benfica indicate that the Portuguese powerhouse aims to convince Essanoussi and his camp that a move to Lisbon offers the best pathway for his development.

Helmond Sport have acknowledged interest from several European clubs, but Benfica’s approach appears the most concrete so far.

The club, managed by José Mourinho, continues its long-standing strategy of nurturing young talents from around the world.

For Essanoussi, the invitation to train with Benfica marks an important milestone in his young career. The experience allows him to test himself among elite prospects while considering a move that could define his footballing journey.

As Benfica evaluate the Moroccan teenager’s performance in Lisbon, fans and scouts across Europe will watch closely to see whether the promising forward becomes the next rising star to emerge from Portugal’s famed talent factory.