Antonio Silva is on the verge of completing a transfer from Benfica to Bournemouth.
The Portuguese defender has traveled for a medical ahead of the move, as reported on July 31, 2026.
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The 22-year-old center-back, who captained Benfica in a 5-0 Europa League qualifying win against St Gallen, has agreed to a deal reportedly worth €25 million plus €5 million in add-ons.
This transfer aims to bolster Bournemouth's defense following the departure of Marcos Senesi.
Silva has made 183 appearances for Benfica in all competitions, including the Champions League and Europa League. He also holds 20 caps for Portugal.
Despite being right-footed, he prefers playing as a left center-back. He declined a contract renewal at Benfica, which facilitated his move to the Premier League.
Former Coach Praises Silva's Qualities
Joao Nuno Fonseca, Silva's former coach at Benfica's development team, praised his football intelligence and maturity.
"Marco will not have any problems with him. Antonio is a very good person and the type of player that is easy to coach.
He is very attentive," Fonseca said.
"At Benfica, he listened to every detail that we gave him.
He was very mature and that had a huge impact because it is difficult to reach the first team at Benfica."
Fonseca highlighted Silva's anticipation skills, stating, "The key aspect of his game is his anticipation. Antonio reads the game really well.
He is an anticipation-based defender rather than a reactive one."
