Evergreen Silva can help Chelsea's Gvardiol transfer pursuit
Thiago Silva turned 38 earlier in the season and is still one of Chelsea’s most effective performers, having done well this season and over the course of his stint at Stamford Bridge.
The Blues have invested heavily in their defence over the last few months having signed the likes of Wesley Fofana, Marc Cucurella and Kalidou Koulibaly over the summer transfer window.
They are also targeting a move for a new defender in the future, including RB Leipzig’s Josko Gvardiol, but Silva’s future at the club may change Chelsea’s course of action.
Chelsea considered a big move for Gvardiol in the summer, but decided against it, and Silva’s contract situation may determine his future.
Silva could end Gvardiol pursuit
Silva was asked about his future on Monday: "It is not the right time to talk about new contracts, so I can not accurately answer this question," the Brazilian said.
"For me now, what is important is to continue playing to the high level and helping the team achieve the best possible results.
"For sure, there will be the time where we will need to talk. It could be before the World Cup or after the World Cup because, of course, I need to know whether I will have a new contract with Chelsea for my family arrangements.
RB Leipzig turned down Chelsea bid for Josko Gvardiol on Deadline week [it was for summer 2023] as they’re convinced other clubs will join the race next summer, including Man City. 🔵🇭🇷 #CFC
New deal until 2027 but Chelsea are still there and the race is absolutely open. pic.twitter.com/Df4IHOgMFD— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) September 12, 2022
“It is not easy. If I won't have a new contract, I will have to decide what to do, and also, for my family, this is an important decision, so we will see what will happen."
By handing Silva an extension, Chelsea will have a quality centre-back amongst their ranks and may just delay the need to buy a new one in the summer transfer window next year.
Gvardiol may cost as much as €90 million for Chelsea, or any other club, to sign him and the Blues could use those funds elsewhere if they end up keeping the Brazilian defender.