Antonio Silva to Bournemouth almost done: Benfica agree to sell 22-year-old after refusal to extend contract | OneFootball

Bournemouth are closing in on the signing of Antonio Silva from Benfica.

Marco Rose's side are nearing an agreement with Benfica for the defender, with personal terms already agreed with Silva.

The Portugal international has 12 months to run on his deal in Lisbon and a refusal to extend his contract has persuaded Benfica to cash in. According to various sources, Bournemouth are close to a full agreement to sign Silva for a fee of around £21.3m.

The 22-year-old has made 181 appearances for Benfica since progressing from the club's youth ranks and was named in the Primeira Liga Team of the Season during a breakout 2022/23 campaign, as Benfica won the title.

He made his international debut for Portugal in 2022 and has won 20 senior caps, winning the UEFA Nations League in 2025. However, he was not part of the squad for this summer'sWorld Cup in North America.

Bournemouth have moved for Silva following the exit of Marcos Senesi. The Argentina international departed for Tottenham Hotspur as a free agent, with Silva sought as his replacement.

Silva led all centre-backs in Portugal last season for progressive carries and ball-carrying frequency per 90 minutes.

He is set to become Bournemouth's second signing under new head coach Rose, following the capture of forward Alvaro Rodriguez from Elche. The 6ft 4in Uruguayan arrived in a £25.7m deal earlier this week.

"It feels like a great privilege to be here. I've always wanted to play in thePremier League and now, on my birthday, that dream has become reality," Rodriguez said at his unveiling.

"It has been a dream since I was a child. When my agent told me Bournemouth were interested, I couldn't believe it.

"Everything I've experienced so far has prepared me for this next chapter, and now I want to keep improving and show what I can do."