Milan are again pursuing Benfica defender Antonio Silva after the player reportedly rejected a contract renewal with the Portuguese club, according to reports in Italy. The 22-year-old’s current deal with Benfica is set to expire in 2027, but he has informed the club of his desire to move on.
This development comes after Milan head coach Paulo Fonseca identified Silva as a key target to bolster the team’s central defence, alongside Gonçalo Inácio, regardless of any other incoming signings. Milan have already secured the arrival of Alessandro Buongiorno, but Fonseca is understood to want two further additions to the backline, potentially dependent on outgoings such as Fikayo Tomori or Mattia Odogu.
Negotiations between Milan and Benfica stalled late last month when the Rossoneri offered approximately €20 million for Silva, a bid Benfica deemed insufficient. Agent Jorge Mendes travelled to Lisbon in an attempt to broker a deal, but the meeting ended without a breakthrough. Benfica subsequently attempted to persuade Silva to reconsider a contract extension, but the player has maintained his intention to leave.
The situation has now shifted in Milan’s favour following Silva’s firm rejection of the renewal offer. The club, through Mendes, are expected to resume talks with Benfica in the coming days, although the Portuguese side are unlikely to accept a significantly reduced fee. Fonseca is reportedly envisioning a new defensive lineup featuring Alessandro Buongiorno, Antonio Silva, and Alessandro Buongiorno, with Mattia Gabbia and Jan-Carlo Simic as backup options. Tomori is widely expected to depart the club if Silva arrives.
The potential arrival of Silva would represent a significant upgrade to Milan’s defensive options, providing Fonseca with a young, highly-rated centre-back to build around. Silva has established himself as a regular starter for Benfica, contributing to their league title win last season, and is considered one of Portugal’s most promising defensive talents.
