Newcastle United’s search for another high-level central defender has already taken them across several European markets over the past year.
The Magpies have looked at younger profiles capable of becoming long-term starters rather than short-term fixes, especially with concerns around injuries and squad depth continuing to follow Eddie Howe’s side.
One name who has consistently remained in that conversation, at least according to the Portuguese press, is António Silva.
The Benfica defender has been admired inside Newcastle’s recruitment structure for some time. The club previously tried to convince him to move to the Premier League. There was also serious interest from Juventus before Benfica blocked a sale.
Now, though, the situation around the Portugal international is changing quickly.
Newcastle United attentive to contract situation
According to Record, Benfica have formally offered António Silva a new contract as they attempt to avoid entering a dangerous position over his future.
The 22-year-old only has one year left on his current deal, meaning this summer could become the final realistic opportunity for the Portuguese side to secure a major fee.
Benfica president Rui Costa is trying hard to convince the defender to stay. The report explains the club are even prepared to hand António Silva the captain’s armband following Nicolás Otamendi’s departure from the club.
That offer is designed to show how central he remains to Benfica’s future plans.
All waiting to see what happens
Record explain Benfica still want António Silva and Tomás Araújo to become the club’s long-term defensive partnership next season. Even José Mourinho reportedly planned around that idea before his expected departure to Real Madrid.
However, Benfica also know the player himself now controls much of the situation.
If António Silva refuses to renew, the Portuguese club may be forced to seriously consider offers. Newcastle are one of the clubs already positioned after previous contact with the player’s camp.
The Magpies’ interest also makes sense strategically.
Fabian Schär turned 34 this season and struggled with injuries at different moments of the campaign. Sven Botman and Malick Thiaw were regulars for much of the season, but the pair also showed inconsistency during several stretches. Meanwhile, Dan Burn – heavily used on the left side of defence by Eddie Howe – has also just turned 34.
That leaves Newcastle in a position where adding another long-term central defensive option could become a serious priority this summer.
António Silva still looks like a promising profile despite a mixed campaign at Benfica.
The defender has made 43 appearances in all competitions this season. He also remains a regular in Roberto Martínez’s Portugal plans ahead of the upcoming World Cup. Benfica expect that could further increase interest in him during the summer window.
Contract pressure changing Benfica’s stance
What makes this situation particularly important for Newcastle is the contractual timeline.
Benfica previously had enough leverage to simply reject approaches outright. That becomes harder if António Silva delays renewal talks deeper into the summer.
Record add that the player is expected to wait until after the World Cup before making a final decision on his future. Benfica are aware of that possibility and know the clock is now working against them.
Newcastle already know Benfica’s resistance. This time, however, the Portuguese side may not have the same room to hold firm if renewal talks fail to progress.
