What Thiago Silva’s contract extension means for Chelsea’s transfer plans

James Shearman

• Updated: 19 May 2021 15:43 BST
• 4 min read

Thiago Silva is set to stay at Chelsea beyond this season, with the option of a 12-month extension set to be triggered soon.

According to Fabrizio Romano, the final details of the contract are being discussed before an option which will keep the 36-year-old at Stamford Bridge until June 2022 is taken up.

Silva has exceeded expectations at Chelsea since arriving on a free transfer from Paris Saint-Germain last summer and all parties concerned are keen to prolong his stay.

In fact, Silva’s wife Isabelle had this to say on an Instagram Q&A when asked Thiago would stay: “To depend on us…yes yes yes!!!!”

Silva’s impact on Chelsea

Frank Lampard was keen to bring the experienced defender into a young backline and, aside from a disappointing debut against West Brom, he has exuded class on a regular basis for the Champions League finalists.

Now working under Thomas Tuchel, Silva continues to offer a calming presence at the back in a five-man defence where he occupies the central role.

This approach allows the pace of Andreas Christensen and Antonio Rudiger either side to cover runs into the channels, while ‘O Monstro’ can remain central and use his wisdom to be in the right place at the right time to spot the most pressing dangers.

This has helped the Blues post the best defensive record in the Premier League since their German manager’s arrival.

While Silva isn’t capable of playing every minute at his age, he remains Chelsea’s best defender, and is sure to be called upon in the Blues’ upcoming FA Cup and Champions League finals.

Chelsea’s transfer plans

With Silva staying for at least another year, one could make the case that the Blues aren’t in need of any further reinforcements.

However, that is not how owner Roman Abramovich will likely operate as he aims to restore the club’s position at the pinnacle of English football by any means necessary.

Expect to see the likes of Raphael Varane, Jose Gimenez and Marquinhos linked with a move to West London this summer, with a big-name centre-back arrival almost certainly on the cards.

This could mean the end for Kurt Zouma, who has slipped down to fifth choice under Tuchel, and make it more difficult for on-loan youngsters Ethan Ampadu and Marc Guehi to get a look-in.

Malang Sarr will return to the club from his spell at Porto and has the best chance of breaking into the first team, but surely won’t prevent any potential marquee signing from arriving.