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Arsenal ‘keen’ on signing Benfica star Antonio Silva

By on March 1, 2024

Arsenal are reportedly keen on signing SL Benfica star Antonio Silva in the upcoming transfer window, as per TEAMtalk.

The Gunners enjoyed a stellar campaign last term and even mounted a title charge but were pipped to the post by the eventual winners Manchester City.

It was suggested that William Saliba’s injury was one of the main issues that derailed their title march last season. So, the North London club decided to reinforce their backline by signing Jurrien Timber last summer.

However, the Dutchman has been ruled out for almost the entire of this season having sustained a serious knee problem in his Premier League debut. So, it now seems Arsenal are planning to sign a new defender ahead of next campaign to beef up their defence.

According to the report by TEAMtalk, Mikel Arteta wants to sign a new defender to provide competition for Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes and have identified Silva as a key target.

Silva to Arsenal

The report further claims that Arsenal are already preparing to submit a formal proposal to lure him to the Emirates Stadium. However, TEAMtalk states that Silva has a £86m release clause included in his current contract so the North London club will have to break the bank to sign him.

However, the report says that Chelsea and Real Madrid are also eager to purchase him and in addition, Manchester United and Liverpool have expressed their interest in signing him as well. So, Arsenal are set to face fierce competition from their rivals in getting any potential deal done for him.

Silva is quick, comfortable playing out from the back, has an eye for long-range passing and is also efficient in defensive contributions. After displaying impressive performances for Benfica, the 20-year-old has already secured his place in Portugal’s star-studded squad.

The defender is deemed one of the best young defenders in the world. So, he would be a great coup for Arsenal with a view to the long-term future if they purchase him. However, it is going to be interesting to see whether the Emirates Club can eventually manage to acquire his service this summer.