PSG fail in last ditch effort to keep Chelsea bound Thiago Silva
According to Sky Sports, Thiago Silva is all set to have his Chelsea medical on Thursday.
The 35-year-old became a free agent after his contract at PSG expired on Sunday. His final hurrah for the French giants ended in heartbreak as Bayern Munich defeated them in the UEFA Champions League final.
The Ligue 1 giants however failed with a last-ditch effort to keep the Brazilian veteran at the Parc des Princes.
According to the report, manager Thomas Tuchel is keen to keep Silva. His view goes against that of sporting director, Leonardo.
The relationship between both the Brazilians has deteriorated, with Leonardo now glad to see the back of Silva. This breakdown in relations has seen the defender make up his mind to move to Stamford Bridge.
Silva will bring in some much-needed leadership to a key area of the Blues squad. Chelsea have looked rudderless at the back and have been far too open for a side looking to challenge for the title.
A shrewd move?
A number of centre-backs were linked with a move to Chelsea, including Lewis Dunk and Declan Rice. Silva is a short-term option when compared to the two, but his impressive leadership and reading of the game make him a worthwhile adversary. (h/t The Mirror)
Despite his advanced age, Silva put up an excellent performance in the Champions League final. He expertly marshalled Robert Lewandowski, who went on to have an uncommon scoreless night.
Silva looks set to be offered a two-year deal at Chelsea. This goes against the club’s policy of handing one-year contracts to players over the age of 30. (h/t The Athletic)
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The skepticism surrounding signing someone aged 35 is understandable. However, Silva is a rare breed of defender who brings to the table the exact qualities that the Chelsea backline lacks.
Although his lack of pace is an issue, his reading of the game and ability to marshal his backline makes him a shrewd buy. Of all the players we sign this summer, the Brazilian could very well prove to be our trump card.