Bournemouth has secured an agreement with Benfica for the transfer of centre-back Antonio Silva, with the total package valued at nearly £26 million. The Portugal defender is now heading to complete his medical examinations after both clubs settled the final terms.
The deal consists of a guaranteed £21.4 million upfront payment, plus an additional £4.3 million tied to performance-based incentives. Silva is set to reinforce Bournemouth’s backline as the club pushes forward with its summer transfer plans.
Antonio Silva’s arrival boosts Bournemouth’s defensive options
Silva was identified as a top target after Bournemouth made finding a replacement for Marcos Senesi a priority, following the defender’s free transfer to Tottenham earlier this month.
Club insiders reveal that the negotiations required considerable time, with the final agreement only reached after Benfica’s Europa League qualifying win over Swiss club St. Gallen on Thursday.
The 22-year-old has been a consistent starter for Benfica since his breakthrough in 2022, gaining valuable experience across the Champions League, Europa League, and Club World Cup.
Benfica defender Antonio Silva brings proven international pedigree
Silva has featured 20 times for Portugal and was part of the national squad for both the 2022 World Cup and Euro 2024.
However, he was left out of Roberto Martinez’s selection for Portugal’s tournament roster this summer.
His addition is anticipated to give Bournemouth greater depth and experience in central defence heading into the new season.
Bournemouth continues summer recruitment under Marco Rose
Silva will become Bournemouth’s second signing of the transfer window, following the acquisition of striker Alvaro Rodriguez from Elche in a deal worth up to £25.7 million.
With Marco Rose now at the helm, Bournemouth is focused on maintaining stability after generating over £200 million in player sales last year. The club is also committed to rejecting offers for Alex Scott, Rayan, and Junior Kroupi.
Kroupi is currently expected to miss three to four months after picking up an injury during pre-season training.