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‘I have been told’: Chelsea now want to replace ‘amazing’ player next summer – journalist

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Journalist Simon Phillips has claimed that Chelsea are looking to replace Thiago Silva at the end of this season.

He told his Substack that the Blues are considering bringing in a more experienced defender in order to replace what they would lose if the veteran leaves the club.

It has been reported that Silva could be on the move at the end of the season as he enters the final stages of the twilight of his career.

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A move back to his home country has seemed the most likely, with the player himself refusing to rule out the potential swap.

Despite the likelihood he leaves this summer, he has continued to be an important member of the side under Mauricio Pochettino.

Chelsea want to replace Silva

He has featured in every Premier League game so far this season, getting plenty of praise from pundits for his performances.

If he is to leave, Phillips has claimed that the club will look to the market to try and replace him.

He said: “But what I have been told is that if Silva does go, they will look to replace him with a centre back with experience. That doesn’t mean an older player necessarily, but it does mean one who has either Premier League or European experience and comes with a bit of leadership and influence.

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“So basically replacing Silva like-for-like, which I believe would be very wise.”

While no names have been properly reported up to now, there have been slight reports linking them to Inter Milan star Alessandro Bastoni.

Whoever joins will by no means be guaranteed minutes at Stamford Bridge though, with an impressive young core of centre-backs coming through at the club.