Milan’s Defensive Overhaul: Mendes Orchestrates Centre-Back Pursuit After Gila Capture

FolioPitch.com – 15 July 2026 | AC Milan are pressing forward with their defensive reinforcement plans, with agent Jorge Mendes playing a central role in identifying a second centre-back following the arrival of Mario Gila. The Rossoneri have moved swiftly to secure the Spanish defender from Lazio on a five-year deal, but reports indicate that the club is far from finished in the transfer market. According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, GdS Mendes at work as Milan eye another centre-back after Gila the candidates, with Benfica’s Antonio Silva and Sporting CP’s Gonçalo Inácio emerging as the primary targets.

The acquisition of Gila addresses the right side of Milan’s three-man defence, a system favoured by new head coach Ruben Amorim. The 23-year-old is expected to displace Fikayo Tomori, who has been linked with a move away. However, the management is keen to add a left-sided or central option to improve build-up play. GdS Mendes at work as Milan eye another centre-back after Gila the candidates, and the super-agent is using his extensive network to facilitate a deal.

Antonio Silva, the 21-year-old Benfica star, has been a long-term target. He has stalled on contract extension talks with the Portuguese club, where his deal runs until 2027. Amorim is a known admirer of Silva, and Milan view him as a potential long-term partner for Gila and Strahinja Pavlović. Gonçalo Inácio, a left-footed centre-back from Sporting, is the alternative. Both players are represented by Mendes, who is working behind the scenes to lower the asking price. GdS Mendes at work as Milan eye another centre-back after Gila the candidates, and the club’s hierarchy, led by Gerry Cardinale, is expected to make a decisive move soon.

Milan’s current defensive roster includes Pavlović, Tomori, Matteo Gabbia, and Pierre Kalulu, but the need for a ball-playing defender is evident. The Gazzetta report emphasizes that quality in possession is a priority. With Gila already secured, the focus is now on adding a complementary piece. GdS Mendes at work as Milan eye another centre-back after Gila the candidates, and the Portuguese agent’s influence could be key in bringing either Silva or Inácio to San Siro.

The Rossoneri are optimistic that Benfica’s position may soften after Silva’s refusal to extend, potentially driving down a fee that previously stood around €50 million. Similarly, Sporting values Inácio highly, but Milan believe a deal is possible under the right conditions. As the transfer window progresses, all eyes remain on Mendes and Milan’s next move.

Conclusion: Milan’s defensive rebuild under Amorim is taking shape, with Gila as the first piece. The addition of a second centre-back, orchestrated by Jorge Mendes, would further solidify the backline. Whether it’s Silva or Inácio, the club is determined to enhance its defensive capabilities ahead of a competitive season. Fans will watch closely as the transfer saga unfolds.