Benfica Reportedly Eyes Israeli Winger Khalaili as Summer Transfer Target

SL Benfica has reportedly registered interest in Union Saint-Gilloise's Israeli right-winger Anan Khalaili as a potential summer transfer target, according to transfer reports. The 21-year-old has emerged as an option that could address inconsistency on Benfica's right flank, with the Belgian club potentially paying a premium given his contract extends until June 2028.

Why This Matters

• Transfer Interest: Benfica has been monitoring Khalaili, though no formal bid has been reported. Union Saint-Gilloise would likely demand a significant fee given his contract length and market value.

• Mourinho Connection: The versatile attacker's playing style—operating as a right winger or right-back with defensive responsibility—aligns with José Mourinho's tactical approach to wide players.

• Familiar Face: Khalaili shared a dressing room with Benfica's Franjo Ivanovic at Union Saint-Gilloise, potentially easing integration if a transfer occurs.

The Player: From Haifa to Belgium's Elite

Anan Khalaili was born in Haifa on September 3, 2004, and came through the youth ranks at Maccabi Haifa, making his senior debut at just 17 years old in February 2022. His breakout came during the 2023/24 season at Maccabi, where he produced strong performances as a right winger and right-back.

Those displays caught the attention of Union Saint-Gilloise, who signed him in July 2024 for €6.5M. Since then, Khalaili has become a regular starter in the Belgian Pro League, with consistent performances across multiple competitions. His Champions League experience at such a young age—including appearances against Europe's elite clubs—has raised his profile significantly.

Why Benfica Is Circling

Benfica's right flank has been inconsistent this season, and Khalaili's profile—right-footed, versatile across the right side, and capable at both winger and wing-back positions—makes him an interesting candidate for reinforcement. His ability to contribute defensively while maintaining an attacking threat appeals to Mourinho's tactical philosophy.

At 21 years old, Khalaili represents the type of young, high-potential player that can offer both immediate value and long-term development potential for a club's investment.

The Ivanovic Connection

An intriguing element of this potential transfer is Khalaili's past relationship with Franjo Ivanovic, the Croatian forward Benfica signed from Union Saint-Gilloise in summer 2025. The two shared a dressing room in Belgium before Ivanovic's move to Portugal. If Khalaili were to join Benfica, reuniting with a familiar face could ease his transition to Portuguese football.

Competition from Other Clubs

Benfica is not alone in considering Khalaili. Newcastle United has also been linked with the Israeli winger, adding another suitor to the mix. However, Benfica may hold an advantage through guaranteed Champions League football and a clear pathway to regular playing time in Portugal's top division.

The Bottom Line

Benfica's reported interest in Anan Khalaili reflects the club's focus on developing young talent with European experience. Whether the Lisbon club pursues an actual bid remains unclear, but the interest demonstrates Benfica's scouting acumen and tactical planning for the summer transfer window. For Portuguese football fans, any move would depend on both Benfica's willingness to invest and Union Saint-Gilloise's asking price.