Thiago Silva has signed a one-year contract with an option of a further year with Chelsea, joining on a free transfer following his departure from Paris Saint-Germain.
The 35-year-old has become the Blues’ fifth major signing this summer after Hakim Ziyech, Timo Werner, Ben Chilwell, and Malang Sarr.
The Brazil international spent the past eight years in Paris and made 315 appearances, with 293 of those as the team captain.
Speaking about joining the Blues, Silva told Chelsea’s official website: “I am so happy to be joining Chelsea.
“I am delighted to be a part of Frank Lampard’s exciting squad for next season and I’m here to challenge for honours.
“See you soon Chelsea fans, I look forward to playing at Stamford Bridge very soon.”
Lampard will surely hope the centre-back could help him solve their defensive issues after conceding more goals than other teams in the top half of the Premier League table in 2019/20.
However, what makes this transfer exciting is not just about what he can bring on the pitch.
As pointed out by Marina Granovskaia, Silva has the experience and leadership qualities which could be important for the Lampard’s young squad.
The Chelsea director said: “We are delighted to be able to add a player of Thiago Silva’s proven world-class credentials to our squad.
“Having performed at the highest level for many years, we have no doubt his experience and quality will complement the many exciting talents we already have here.
“Thiago will be an excellent fit and we hope he can add some new trophies to his impressive list of honours.”