Arsenal will reportedly compete with Chelsea and Real Madrid for Benfica defensive sensation Antonio Silva.
According to a report by TEAMtalk, Antonio Silva is the subject of interest from Arsenal. The Gunners are keen on signing a centre-back in the summer transfer window amid uncertainties surrounding the future of Jakub Kiwior. Meanwhile, the Benfica defensive sensation, who will cost around €100 million, is also a target for Chelsea and Real Madrid.
The Rise and Rise of Antonio Silva
Antonio Silva is the latest Portuguese prospect to make a name for himself in his homeland. Hailing from the fabled Benfica Academy, which has produced several world-class players over the years, the youngster rose through the ranks at the club before making his first-team debut as an 18-year-old in 2022.
Now a mainstay at the back for Benfica, the Portuguese defensive sensation is also rising in stature on the international stage. The 20-year-old has turned out 79 times thus far for the Eagles, chipping in with seven goals. Meanwhile, Silva’s progress has not gone unnoticed, and his exploits have piqued the interest of many high-profile clubs.
Premier League bigwigs, in particular, are keen on signing him, with Arsenal and Chelsea vying for his signature. In addition, the highly-rated centre-back is a target for La Liga heavyweights Real Madrid. Meanwhile, suitors need to fork out €100 million to secure his services.
A Man in Demand
Arsenal’s interest in Antonio Silva is intriguing, considering the blossoming partnership of Gabriel Magalhaes and William Saliba. But with Jakub Kiwior facing an uncertain future at the Emirates, Arsenal can do with a centre-back. However, paying €100 million for a non-essential signing might not be sensible. Meanwhile, Chelsea might not fork out €100 million either.
The Blues are struggling to comply with the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules. But Silva is a viable target, as he can be the long-term successor to Thiago Silva. As for Real Madrid, with Antonio Rudiger, David Alaba, and Nacho on the wrong side of 30, the Portuguese defensive sensation can be Eder Militao’s central defensive partner for many years.
The high value of the release clause complicates matters for most suitors, including Real Madrid, who will look to sanction an expensive free transfer of Kylian Mbappe. So, it will be interesting to see if Silva leaves Benfica anytime soon.
