Why Chelsea could lose 'best version of Thiago Silva' on free transfer

James Shearman

• Updated: 23 May 2023 08:56 CDT
• 3 min read

Chelsea defender Thiago Silva could leave the west London club on a free transfer at the end of the season.

The 38-year-old's contract is up in 2023, having signed a one-year extension last summer, but the Blues are yet to offer him a new deal.

Despite his age, Silva had been a regular in Chelsea's backline prior to the World Cup break.

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Some have suggested that he is on the decline, which could have something to do which the Blues' poor defensive record.

But the Brazil international is adamant that the 'best version of Thiago Silva' is the current one.

''I am now enjoying the best version of Thiago Silva,'' he said ahead of Brazil's World Cup group stage match against Serbia.

"I think now, at my age, I am living the best moments of my career. I also have other personal fulfilments, I have a beautiful family that is a great support to me.''

But Chelsea, in particular Graham Potter, might not agree. And there are a number of potential replacements, such as Benjamin Pavard.

Pavard to replace Thiago Silva at Chelsea?

Chelsea were among the teams who heavily pursued Bayern Munich's Benjamin Pavard over the summer, but a move never materialised.

The Frenchman is reportedly open to a move away from the Allianz Arena, given his desire to play at centre-back rather than as a full-back.

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Pavard will become a free agent in 2023 upon the expiration of his contract at the Bavarian club, meaning he remains in the news for a potential transfer.

Barcelona and Atletico Madrid are among the teams who have also previously shown interest in signing the defender.

But, with Pavard expressing his desire to play in the middle of defence, that may swing things towards Graham Potter's side, who regularly use three centre-backs.