Bournemouth in Talks to Sign Antonio Silva as Marcos Senesi Replacement
Bournemouth is in talks to sign Antonio Silva, a 22-year-old centre-back from Benfica, to replace Marcos Senesi. Silva has been described as 'something special' by former Benfica boss Roger Schmidt.
What happened?
Bournemouth are in talks with Benfica to sign Silva, who is viewed as a replacement for Marcos Senesi. Senesi joined Tottenham on a free transfer earlier this summer following the expiration of his contract at the Vitality Stadium.
Why it matters for Bournemouth
Bournemouth are viewed as strong contenders to sign the defender and terms will not prove to be an issue with the player. Silva has already informed Benfica he wants to leave, and will not sign a new deal, but Benfica have delayed further negotiations as they focus on Europa League qualifying.
What comes next?
Benfica play St Gallen in Switzerland on July 23, before hosting the Swiss side on July 30. Silva has made 181 appearances for Benfica across four seasons and has Champions League experience. He has also won 20 caps for Portugal, but was not selected in Roberto Martinez's World Cup squad this summer.
Bournemouth have also signed Alvaro Rodriguez from Elche for an initial £21million plus bonuses. The striker is seen as someone who will compliment Evanilison and is not a Junior Kroupi replacement. Bournemouth are intent on keeping hold of Kroupi, who broke the record for most goals in a single season by a teenager last year, despite initial interest from several clubs, including Spurs and Arsenal.
Current Context
Bournemouth currently sit 6th in the Premier League, with 57 points from 38 games. They have scored 58 goals and conceded 54, with a goal difference of +4. They are 28 points behind leaders Arsenal in the title race. Their last result was a 1-1 draw against Nottingham Forest on May 24. They are unbeaten in their last 5 games, with a recent form of 1W-4D-0L (DDDDW). Their next fixture is against Genoa at home on August 4.
Bournemouth are also in ongoing talks with Alex Scott over a new deal. Discussions began in March, and Bournemouth are prepared to offer a release clause active in 2027 as part of any extension. Scott has been on the radar of Manchester United, Manchester City, Chelsea and Arsenal this summer, but Bournemouth insist they don't wish to sell, and value Scott at £80million.
