Alarm for Marco Silva as Benfica could lose new signing in January | OneFootball

Marco Silva faces an early 2027 headache, with the Asian Cup set to coincide with a busy stretch that could affect Benfica’s defensive plans.

According to Glorioso 1904, Australia defender Alessandro Circati, aged 22, is on his way to Benfica to bolster the centre of defence after António Silva’s move to Bournemouth on one August.

Circati has 17 caps and started all four of the Socceroos’ matches at the 2026 World Cup, establishing himself as a key pick for Tony Popovic.

Australia are in Group D at the Asian Cup, scheduled in Saudi Arabia from seven January to five February 2027. If selected, Circati could be absent during a demanding spell for the Lisbon club.

His call-up could see him miss five Liga fixtures, the final two rounds of the UEFA Europa League league phase and the Taça da Liga final four.

The signing addresses an immediate need following António Silva’s departure, but it may also force Benfica to consider additional cover in central defence during a pivotal period.

Source: Glorioso 1904

“Artificial intelligence was used to assist in creating this article based on reporting from the original source quoted.”