Thiago Silva could look to leave Chelsea a year early with the defender keen to return to boyhood club Fluminense this summer window, according to reports.
The 38-year-old, who joined the Blues on a free transfer from Paris Saint-Germain in 2020, only recently signed a new one-year extension that keeps him at Stamford Bridge until 2024.
That was before Graham Potter was sacked and they fell out of European contention, however, and Silva may regret his decision to sign a new deal.
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According to Globo Esporte, the centre-back – who criticised Chelsea’s ownership recently – is having second thoughts about continuing in London and would rather return to Brazil.
Although Chelsea’s poor form has played a major part in his decision – the club are marooned in 11th place in the Premier League – his desire to leave is motivated more by Fluminense’s improving form and calls for him to return.
The West London side are currently three points off top spot in Brazil’s Serie A and recently brought Real Madrid legend Marcelo back to the club.
Silva is great friends with his old international team-mate and is looking at the possibility of playing one final season alongside him.
For his part, Marcelo is said to have been privately urging Silva to return to Brazil while club president Mario Bittencourt and former striker Fred have also been talking to him to return to Fluminense.
Their pleas appear to have had a big effect, while manager Fernando Diniz is happy to welcome him into the team despite his advancing age.
Meanwhile, Silva was presented with an honorary No.3 jersey last year and the club have not given the number to any players this campaign.
All parties seem to be keen for the move to happen this summer, though Globo’s report claims Silva still needs the permission of Chelsea technical director Christopher Vivell.
The Brazilian star will meet with Chelsea’s hierarchy once the campaign is over and try to persuade them to let him end his contract early despite signing an extension only three months ago.
Silva’s mind is unlikely to be changed by the appointment of a new coach and his last match for Chelsea could come at home to Newcastle on May 28.
