Bournemouth have entered negotiations with Benfica to sign Portuguese centre-back Antonio Silva as a direct replacement for Marcos Senesi, who left the club on a free transfer to Tottenham Hotspur.
The 22-year-old is viewed as an ideal ball-playing successor to the Argentine, though Benfica have temporarily paused talks to navigate their upcoming Europa League qualifiers against St Gallen, with the first leg scheduled for 23 July in Switzerland.
Antonio Silva: Key Facts
Age: 22
Club: Benfica
Position: Centre-back
Portugal caps: 20
Tournament experience: 2022 World Cup, Euro 2024, Champions League, Europa League, Club World Cup
Silva has been a mainstay in the Benfica side since breaking through in 2022, accumulating valuable experience in European competitions. Despite his regular presence in the national team setup, he was not selected by Roberto Martinez for Portugal's 2026 World Cup squad.
Bournemouth's Summer Rebuild Under Marco Rose
The Cherries, now managed by Marco Rose, are aiming for a summer of stability after offloading over £200m in talent last year. Silva would become the club's second summer acquisition, following striker Alvaro Rodriguez's arrival from Elche in a deal worth up to £25.7m.
Bournemouth are determined to resist any offers for core players Alex Scott, Rayan, and Junior Kroupi, as they look to consolidate their Premier League status.
"Silva is seen as a good ball-playing replacement for the Argentina centre-back," reported BBC Sport.
The deal's progression may accelerate once Benfica navigate their European commitments, with Bournemouth keen to bolster their defensive options ahead of the new season.