Chelsea set to offer Thiago Silva new contract keeping defender at club beyond his 39th birthday
CHELSEA are set to offer veteran defender Thiago Silva a new contract, according to reports.
The proposed deal would see the Brazilian stay at Stamford Bridge beyond his 39th birthday.
GettyThiago Silva is still playing at the top level aged 38[/caption]
Silva, 38, has been a revelation for the Blues since joining from Paris Saint-Germain in 2020.
According to The Times, Chelsea chiefs view Silva as the perfect veteran to mentor their young talent.
Since his arrival last year, owner Todd Boehly has placed an emphasis on recruiting top young talent, including defenders Wesley Fofana, 22, and Benoit Badiashile, 21.
Having been a stalwart for former manager Thomas Tuchel, Silva has also impressed current boss Graham Potter with his “attitude and ability”.
Silva and wife Belle are said to be settled in London and happy to stick around.
Having featured for Brazil at the World Cup, Silva remains as fit as ever – having made 30 appearances for club and country so far this term.
He is said to want to keep playing at the highest level beyond his 40th birthday.
Silva has made 105 appearances for the Blues since joining two and a half seasons ago.
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In that time he has won the Champions League, Uefa Super Cup and Fifa Club World Cup.
Chelsea’s January spending is set to continue this week.
The Blues have already recruited Badiashile, David Datro Fofana, Andrey Santos, Mykhailo Mudryk and Noni Madueke this month – in addition to Joao Felix on loan.
They are chasing Lyon’s teenage right-back Malo Gusto and want him this month rather than waiting until the summer, given Reece James’ injury woes.
While Chelsea also want to sign World Cup sensation Enzo Fernandez from Benfica – although the Portuguese side are determined to keep him.
Chelsea have so far made five permanent signings this month
