Sources: Chelsea turn attention to signing Thiago Silva replacement
Chelsea are laying the groundwork for another centre-back signing this summer as they prepare to part with veteran defender Thiago Silva, sources have told Football Insider.
The Blues are ready to allow the 39-year-old to leave Stamford Bridge for good when his contract expires at the end of the 2023-24 campaign.
Football Insider revealed in October that Copa Libertadores winners Fluminense are ready to offer Silva the chance to return to his homeland.
And Chelsea are planning to replace the 113-cap legend by dipping into the market for yet another big-money deal this summer.
The Blues have sanctioned big-money deals for Axel Disasi, Benoit Badiashille and Wesley Fofana in recent windows but are still keen to expand their options at centre-back.
Football Insider revealed on Wednesday (3 January) that Chelsea are very interested in Sporting CP defender Ousmane Diomande – who is also wanted by Arsenal and Newcastle.
The Ivory Coast international has a £70million release clause in his contract with the Portuguese giants.
It is believed Chelsea are keen to structure a move for the defender this month but are more likely to have to do battle with English and European rivals in the summer window.
Silva, who turns 40 in September, penned an extension last February but is now expected to quit at the end of the 2023-24 campaign.
He has started and played 90 minutes in all but two of Chelsea’s Premier League fixtures this season.
Mauricio Pochettino’s side are performing below expectations and sit 10th in the table despite another summer of lavish spending.
The Blues are next in action in the FA Cup against Preston on Saturday (6 January) before their League Cup semi-final first leg against Middlesbrough next week (9 January).
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