Bournemouth have completed the signing of Portugal international defender Antonio Silva from Benfica. The transfer is worth £21.4m plus a potential £4.3m in add-ons. Silva expressed excitement about joining the club, stating, 'I am very happy to be here...

I can't wait to start the season with my team-mates.' The move addresses Bournemouth's need for a centre-back after Marcos Senesi's departure, with Silva offering the profile of a tall, strong defender who prefers the left side. At 22 years old, Silva has played 237 games for Benfica and earned 20 caps for Portugal, featuring in the 2022 World Cup and 2024 Euros. He also contributed to Portugal's 2025 UEFA Nations League victory and has won six titles with Benfica and the national team, including being named best defender in the 2022/23 Portuguese league.

Bournemouth value his winning mentality and European experience, aligning with their ambition to perform on the pitch. Silva's arrival strengthens a defense that requires depth and technical ability, fitting the Cherries' strategic goals for the upcoming Premier League season.