Bournemouth transfers: Portugal defender Antonio Silva joins Cherries
Portuguese defender Antonio Silva has transferred to AFC Bournemouth from Benfica in a deal worth up to £25.7 million. The 22-year-old is expected to bolster the club's defense following the departure of Marcos Senesi.
Why it matters
This signing highlights the financial scale of Premier League transfers and the strategic focus on acquiring young, high-potential talent for European football clubs.
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, Antonio Silva is regarded as one of the most promising young centre-backs in Europe
Football reporter Published 1 August 2026 Portugal defender Antonio Silva says he is excited to join Bournemouth after signing for the Cherries in a deal worth up to £25.7m.
The 22-year-old joins from Benfica where he has been a regular since breaking into the first team in 2022 and has featured in the Champions League, Europa League and Club World Cup.
It is a key signing for Bournemouth , who identified replacing Marcos Senesi, following his free-transfer move to Tottenham earlier this month, as a priority.
"I am very happy to be here. It's a pleasure to play for Bournemouth and in the Premier League," Silva told the club's website.
"I can't wait to start the season with my team-mates and I'm excited to be here.
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