Bournemouth completed the signing of Portugal international defender Antonio Silva from Benfica on August 1, 2026, in a transfer valued at about £26 million including add-ons [1, 2, 3]. Silva joined the club after Bournemouth reached an agreement following Benfica's Europa League qualifying win on July 31 [1].

The 22-year-old Silva is seen as a direct replacement for Marcos Senesi, who left Bournemouth for Tottenham Hotspur on a free transfer during the summer [1, 2, 3]. Bournemouth's president of football operations Tiago Pinto praised Silva’s experience and qualities, saying, "Despite being only 22, he has already built an outstanding level of experience at one of Europe's biggest clubs... He is ambitious, has a proven winning mentality and knows what it takes to compete for trophies" [1, 2].

Silva has been a regular player for Benfica since 2022 and has accumulated considerable top-level experience, having featured in UEFA Champions League and Europa League matches [1, 2, 3]. While one source states he has made 235 appearances for Benfica in all competitions, others do not specify the exact total [1, 2, 3]. He was named the Portuguese Primeira Liga defender of the year for the 2022-23 season [2, 3].

Internationally, Silva has 20 caps for Portugal and has been part of major tournament squads including the 2022 World Cup and Euro 2024. He was also a member of Portugal’s Nations League winning side last year but was not selected for the upcoming 2026 summer tournament [1, 2, 3].

Bournemouth have aimed for stability this summer after last year’s significant player sales and have already signed striker Alvaro Rodriguez. They will compete in the Europa League this season and start their Premier League campaign against Manchester City on August 23, 2026 [1, 2, 3].

However, one of Bournemouth’s key players, Junior Kroupi, is sidelined for 3 to 4 months due to a pre-season injury [1].

Silva expressed his excitement to join Bournemouth, saying, "It's a pleasure to play for Bournemouth and in the Premier League. I can't wait to start the season with my team-mates and I'm excited to be here... I will try my best, and I will play for the fans" [1].

Bournemouth face Manchester City at home in their opening Premier League match on August 23.