AFC Bournemouth is in advanced negotiations to sign 22-year-old Portuguese centre-back Antonio Silva from Benfica, in a deal that once again underscores how even mid-table Premier League clubs can outmuscle Europe’s traditional powerhouses in the transfer market.
The fee Benfica is reportedly seeking sits between €20 million and €25 million. Bournemouth has reportedly reached an agreement in principle on a contract that would keep Silva at the club until 2031.
What we know about the deal
Silva has turned down Benfica’s offer to extend his contract, and with just one year remaining on his current deal, the Portuguese club finds itself in the classic seller’s dilemma. Hold firm and risk losing him for free next summer, or accept a discounted fee now and move on.
Benfica has apparently chosen the pragmatic route. The club is already preparing for life without Silva, reportedly lining up Ibrahima Ba from Famalicao as a replacement.
