(Football news) Chelsea defender Thiago Silva has signed a contract extension with the club until the end of the 2022/23 season. Having joined in the summer of 2020 from Paris Saint-Germain, the 37 year old Brazilian has established himself as a regular in the center of defense, making 22 appearances already this season with two goals and two assists. Silva’s time at Chelsea has been successful to say the least as the Blues have won the Champions League and the European Super Cup since his arrival.

Speaking to Chelsea's website after signing his deal, Silva said: "To play here with Chelsea is a real pleasure. I never thought I would play for three years here in this great club so I'm very happy to stay for another season. I would also like to say thanks to my family, the club, Marina (Granovskaia) and to Mr (Roman) Abramovich for this opportunity. I will continue to give everything for this club and for the supporters, who have always been by my side since I arrived. It's amazing to have this relationship with the fans and not only that but the players, staff and the whole club. I'm going to give everything to keep playing at this level in the most important league in the world."

Granovskaia, Chelsea's director, added: "Thiago Silva's experience, leadership and performances have been and remain very important to this squad, so we are hugely pleased to extend his contract by another year. We look forward to his continued influence as we seek honours this season and next, and more of the qualities that have led to him having such a big impact for us on and off the pitch."

Meanwhile, Silva’s teammate Antonio Rudiger has opened pre-contract talks with the likes of Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, Paris Saint-Germain and Juventus. Manchester United’s Ralf Rangnick is also rumoured to be interested in signing the 28 year old and is familiar with the German’s brother who is also his agent. Rudiger’s contract expires in the summer and he is now free to discuss deals with other clubs ahead of a free transfer but he could also remain at Stamford Bridge and sign a contract extension in the near future. 

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