Key Benfica ace 'doubtful' for Hearts as Portuguese international set to replace star after big money move

Benfica face fitness doubts over a key star ahead of the Europa League third round qualifier first leg with Hearts - as a Portuguese international is set to come into the team.

Marco Silva’s side are heavy favourites to progress to the competition’s play-offs but the Jambos head to Lisbon eyeing a major upset. Benfica are European regulars and will be under pressure to progress but have lost key defender Antonio Silva in a big money agreement with Premier League side Bournemouth. Another ace they could be missing is midfield battler Fredrik Aursnes.

The Norwegian was impressive at the World Cup as his nation made it to the quarter-finals and he is one appearance shy of 200 outings for Benfica. He missed last week’s second round qualifier second leg victory over Swiss side St Gallen with a thigh strain and that has left his involvement in this one ‘doubtful’ according to reports in Portugal. Boss Silva also needs a replacement in central defence to partner ex-Barcelona man Clement Lenglet and Tomas Araujo is likely to be that player.

Who will play in defence for Benfica vs Hearts?

He was at the World Cup with Portugal and is ‘expected to start’ the game after new Bournemouth signing Silva played both legs of the St Gallen qualifier prior to his Cherries move. He is the ideal situation for his manager, otherwise, 18-year-old Brazilian Gabriel Indio could be deployed after his summer arrival from Athletic Club in his homeland. Defensive midfielder, Manu Silva, could also be a Benfica option if the back were that to be required this week.

Speaking on his move to Bournemouth, Silva said: “I am very happy to be here. It's a pleasure to play for Bournemouth and in the Premier League. I can't wait to start the season with my teammates and I'm excited to be here. The mentality is always to win. I will try my best, and I will play for the fans. We have everything here that helps us perform on the pitch, and I can't wait to get started."

AFC Bournemouth President of Football Operations, Tiago Pinto, said: "António is a player we have admired for a long time and we're delighted to welcome him to AFC Bournemouth. Despite being only 22, he has already built an outstanding level of experience at one of Europe's biggest clubs, playing consistently in domestic, European and international competitions.

Now former Benfica defender Antonio Silva | AFP via Getty Images

Who have Bournemouth signed from Benfica this summer transfer window?

"Those experiences have helped shape him into a defender with real maturity and leadership qualities. He is ambitious, has a proven winning mentality and knows what it takes to compete for trophies. Those are the characteristics we want to bring into this football club as we continue to build a squad capable of competing at the highest level.

"We're excited to see António continue his development here under Marco Rose and we're confident he'll be an excellent addition to the group."