“Newcastle United Eye £40m Move for 17-Time International with Champions League Pedigree”
Newcastle United Targeting Benfica Star Antonio Silva in January Move
Newcastle United are reportedly considering a significant move for highly-rated Benfica center-back Antonio Silva as they aim to strengthen their defensive options during the January transfer window.
The Magpies have endured a mixed start to the season, conceding 21 goals in their first 16 Premier League matches, prompting a need for defensive reinforcements.
Eddie Howe’s current center-back options include Fabian Schär (32) and Dan Burn (32), both of whom are nearing the later stages of their careers.
Additionally, Jamaal Lascelles (31) and Emil Krafth (30) are also approaching the twilight years of their playing days.
While Sven Botman (24) is nearing a return from an ACL injury, Howe will need to manage his comeback carefully, leaving a gap for a younger, long-term defensive solution.
Antonio Silva, a 21-year-old Portuguese international, has emerged as a key target.
The Benfica academy graduate has already made 106 senior appearances, showcasing exceptional tactical intelligence, vision, and game-reading abilities.
These attributes earned him a spot in the Primeira Liga Team of the Season alongside notable players like Pepe, Alex Grimaldo, and Gonçalo Ramos.
Silva’s career accomplishments include winning a league title, a domestic cup, and earning 17 caps for Portugal.
He was also part of Roberto Martinez’s squad for the European Championships last summer.
Despite being a consistent starter for Benfica in recent years, Silva has recently seen his role diminish under manager Bruno Lage, with fellow youngster Tomás Araújo moving ahead in the pecking order.
According to Football Insider, Silva ticks all the boxes Newcastle are looking for in a defender—youth, composure, and strong ball-playing ability.
The report suggests that Silva could be available for a fee in the range of £40-£45 million, making him an attainable target for Newcastle’s recruitment team, led by Paul Mitchell.
The Magpies are now weighing up an opening bid for the promising center-back.
