Bournemouth is nearing completion of a transfer agreement to sign Portuguese defender Antonio Silva from Benfica. The clubs reached a deal more than a week ago, reportedly valued at an initial £21.4 million with an additional £4.3 million in potential add-ons.

The 21-year-old central defender, who has earned 20 caps for Portugal, remained with Benfica for their Europa League qualifying match against Swiss side St Gallen. Benfica suffered a 2-1 defeat in the first leg and requested permission from Bournemouth to field Silva in the second leg, which took place on Thursday. Silva made his final appearance for Benfica in that match, a 5-0 victory that secured the club’s progression.

Following the fixture, Silva traveled to England to undergo a medical examination, an important milestone in finalizing his move to Bournemouth. The transfer, once completed, will bolster the club’s defensive options ahead of the upcoming season.