Chelsea have submitted an offer to Thiago Silva days after his departure from Porto, according to reports from ESPN Brazil. The proposal is not for a playing role, but rather to allow the veteran defender to begin his coaching career within the club’s structure.
Silva previously spent four seasons with Chelsea, arriving initially on a one-year contract in 2020. His consistent performances led to a series of contract extensions, and he ultimately helped the club win the Champions League. He left Stamford Bridge in 2023.
Following his exit from Chelsea, Silva returned to his native Brazil to play for Fluminense for two seasons. A recent short spell at Porto lasted just 14 games before he became a free agent. This quick turnaround has prompted Chelsea to make their offer.
Should Silva choose to continue his playing career, a return to AC Milan is also a possibility. The Italian club, where he played 119 games and won Serie A, have reportedly offered him a one-year deal. Silva maintains a close friendship with Zlatan Ibrahimovic, now a senior advisor at Milan, which could influence his decision.
Chelsea were reportedly interested in bringing Silva back to the club during the winter transfer window, when he was leaving Fluminense. At that time, a move back to London was considered a preference for the defender, as his family remained in the area and his sons are part of the Chelsea academy. Crystal Palace, West Ham and Fulham were also alerted to his availability.
The Blues’ interest stems from Silva’s potential as a coach, particularly given his family’s ties to the club. While his recent stint at Porto was brief, Silva has generally performed well on short-term contracts, and Chelsea clearly value his experience and leadership qualities. Silva’s decision will determine whether he transitions into coaching or extends his playing career.
