Thiago Silva could now be leaving Chelsea this summer as talk of a return to Brazil with Fluminense heats up.
A story from Extra Globo claimed that the South American has decided to return to his homeland at the end of the season.
However, that was contradicted when the 38-year-old himself told ESPN Brasil that he would not be leaving Chelsea.
Now – following an update from Super Esporte – Thiago Silva‘s decision could be influenced by his wife, Belle Silva.
What’s the story?
Well, the Brazilian news outlet believe Belle Silva would prefer a return to Brazil with Fluminense.
It is said that the £96,000-a-week man’s partner will leave the final decision up to her husband, although she has made her preference known.
Silva is contracted to Chelsea until June 2024, and it remains to be seen if he is even a regular starter next season with Mauricio Pochettino expected to oversee a major overhaul at Stamford Bridge.
The Blues have spent heavily on the likes of Wesley Fofana, Benoît Badiashile and Kalidou Koulibaly in the past 12 months, all of whom are younger than the Brazil international, so he could struggle for game time next term.
Furthermore – according to The Athletic – Chelsea need to offload some players before June 30th in order to comply with Financial Fair Play regulations, after spending roughly £600m on new signings under Todd Boehly.
Therefore, Silva’s departure would represent a financial boost to Chelsea as they attempt to balance the books.
Thiago Silva can still help Chelsea
Even if Silva doesn’t end up starting regularly under Pochettino next season, he can still be an asset to the Argentine if a move to Fluminense fails to materialise.
The Rio de Janeiro-born colossus boasts 629 appearances in football, as well as 113 caps for Brazil, so his experience can be vital to Pochettino behind the scenes.
Whether Silva would be happy to play that role without starting many games remains to be seen.
Be sure to keep an eye on the situation, as the Chelsea No.6’s future remains very uncertain.