Having solved the striker question with the signing of Gonzalo Ramos, AC Milan now turns its attention to the backline. The number one priority for the Rossoneri’s summer transfer window has become the central defender role, and over the past few hours the Portuguese press has thrown up one specific name: Antonio Silva, centre-back at Benfica and a Portugal international.
Who Is Antonio Silva: Already Battle-Hardened at Just 22
Born in 2003, just 22 years old, Antonio Silva is anything but an unproven prospect. The Portuguese defender has already made over 180 first-team appearances for Benfica, a figure that places him on a level of technical and physical maturity well above his age. Having come through the Águias academy, he has established himself as one of the most solid centre-backs in Portuguese football and has already earned multiple caps for the senior Portugal national team, even though he was not included in the squad for the upcoming World Cup.
That absence from the international tournament could actually prove to be a positive factor for Milan: the player would be available earlier than colleagues busy on the international stage, allowing for a faster integration into Amorim’s system.
The Jorge Mendes Factor and Transfer Fee
Antonio Silva is represented by Jorge Mendes, the influential Portuguese super-agent who has built a solid working relationship with the club in recent years. Mendes has already brokered several deals involving Milan — including operations linked to Joao Felix and André Silva — and played a role in the recent Gonzalo Ramos transfer. His involvement could ease negotiations, although — as history has shown — with Mendes involved, surprises are always possible.
On the financial side, Antonio Silva’s valuation is estimated at between €20 and €25 million — an accessible figure given current market prices for a profile of his calibre. A few seasons ago his asking price was considerably higher; a slight dip in form has brought his value down, but his potential remains untouched and his room for growth is still significant.
Why Milan Need a Central Defender
The need to reinforce the centre-back position is no secret. Looking at the current squad, the available central defenders are De Winter, Tomori, Gabbia and Pavlovic. Odogu, who saw very little game time last season, could also depart, although a manager with Amorim’s mentality and football philosophy might reassess his qualities.
The fact remains that, competing on three fronts — Serie A, Europa League and Coppa Italia — having four (or even five) reliable centre-backs is an absolute necessity to sustain a full season. Recent Rossoneri history backs this up: in the first half of last season, when Milan boasted the best defensive record in Italy, the team was near the top of the table. As soon as the backline started to creak, results deteriorated. Amorim knows this well, and so does Cardinale.
Not Just Silva: Other Names on the Rossoneri Shortlist
Antonio Silva will not be the only name considered for the defensive role. Milan are building a balanced squad and have no intention of relying exclusively on Mendes-represented profiles — a decision that also makes strategic sense, to avoid concentrating too much negotiating power in the hands of a single agent. In the coming weeks, other candidates may emerge to complete the Rossoneri’s defensive unit, alongside discussions for the midfielders, wide players and attacking midfielders needed to round out Amorim’s 3-4-2-1.
Milan are working hard behind the scenes. The summer revolution is in full swing, and every passing day brings exciting new developments for the Rossoneri faithful.
