An older man with glasses and a dark suit appears in front of a background of euro bills, while a young man with a modern hairstyle and a white T-jersey is shown in a circle.
Florentino Pérez already has a new alternative in the transfer market | Camara Real Madrid Confidencial
FIRST TEAM

Real Madrid Already Knows the Price to Pay for the New Militão: a Profitable Option

Getting the services of a central defender remains a priority for Real Madrid

by

Enrique Sanz

The turn of the year brings some substantial changes to the Valdebebas offices; however, it also means that some trends remain as they were. One of those things that don't change at Real Madrid is the priorities in the 2025 summer transfer market. Strengthening the defensive line with a major transfer is on the board's list of "musts".

The names that the leaders are starting to consider for six months from now still don't convince due to different aspects like their age, their defensive abilities, or the economic issue. However, there would also have been changes in one of the operations that seemed unattainable.

A soccer player in a red Benfica uniform on the field.
Antóno Silva in a match with Benfica | Real Madrid Confidencial

Specifically, we're talking about António Silva. The Benfica central defender, highly sought after last season, reached a valuation as unexpected as it was exaggerated at the Valdebebas offices: the Eagles were asking for 100 million euros. Madrid, despite the need of a central defender transfer at that time, refused to pay that price and looked for other options and alternatives available.

While it's true that they ended up failing in the 'Yoro case', perhaps saving themselves many headaches today, the Meringue sports management never stopped pursuing the transfer of António Silva. Those efforts would have yielded their corresponding reward half a year later, when other elite European soccer teams have attempted to sign him.

Surprise in his departure

Juventus of Turin, according to information published by DAZN, would have made an offer of 35 million euros for António Silva. Benfica would have decided not to accept it because it doesn't match the valuation they have of the young center-back in the noble area of Estádio da Luz: they want 40 millions.

That would be a figure that not only Real Madrid would be willing to pay. It's necessary to remember that Florentino Pérez set a limit of about 50 million euros for the transfer of a center-back in the upcoming markets. In that sense, knowing António Silva's new price, Aston Villa would have mobilized to try to secure his transfer as soon as possible.

Football player in red uniform celebrating on the field while kneeling and gesturing with his hand on his forehead.
Antóno Silva celebrates a goal scored with Benfica | Real Madrid Confidencial

This attempt by the 'villains', also revealed by DAZN, could provoke a reaction from Real Madrid. From the Valdebebas offices, they still haven't decided to sign António Silva, but he's a player who can provide quality and longevity in equal parts. That's why he remains on the list of potential transfers, although very discreetly until now.

With the financial issue of his arrival at Bernabéu changing room showing a more favorable face, Madrid views his definitive incorporation into the first team more favorably. This would solve several dilemmas with a single move and also fulfilll one of the most striking demands Carlo Ancelotti has made since he returned as Madrid's coach.

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