Bournemouth is finalizing a deal to sign Portuguese defender Antonio Silva from Benfica in a transfer reportedly valued at up to £26 million. The agreement includes an initial fee of £21.4 million, with potential add-ons of £4.3 million. Silva, a 22-year-old center-back with 20 international caps for Portugal, is expected to undergo a medical in England following his move.

The transfer has been in discussion for over a week, with Benfica initially requesting permission for Silva to participate in their Europa League qualifying matches. After Benfica trailed FC St. Gallen 2-1 in the first leg, the Portuguese club sought to retain Silva for the second leg. Silva played in Benfica’s 5-0 victory over St. Gallen, which secured their progression in the competition, before departing for England.

Silva has been a prominent figure at Benfica since his debut in 2022, making 183 appearances across domestic leagues and international tournaments including the Champions League, Europa League, and the Club World Cup. He was part of Portugal’s squads at the 2022 World Cup and Euro 2024.

Bournemouth aims to bolster its defense following the departure of Argentine defender Marcos Senesi, who left the club on a free transfer to join Tottenham Hotspur in June. Silva’s arrival marks the Cherries’ second major signing of the summer, following the acquisition of Spanish forward Alvaro Rodriguez from Elche for a fee reported to be around £25.7 million.

The club’s management sees Silva as a key addition to strengthen their backline as they prepare for the challenges of the upcoming season. The finalization of the deal and completion of his medical are anticipated in the coming days.