Grading every Chelsea signing of the summer transfer window
5. Thiago Silva
It’s no secret Chelsea had defensive problems last season. As supporters debated whether the matter in question was the lack of a competent left back, flustered centerbacks or a keeper lacking confidence, the Blues were working behind the scenes to solve the issues. Chilwell addressed one of the problem areas and as the club found itself knee deep in costly negotiations with Leverkusen for Kai Havertz, it had to act quickly and secure the signature of a centerback.
It turns out, one club’s trash is truly another club’s treasure. Paris Saint-Germain acknowledged it would not re-sign club captain Thiago Silva as his contract neared an end, so it was a no brainer as Chelsea swooped in. Silva doesn’t represent a long-term answer—and there are some questions regarding how well he fits into the defensive style of Lampard’s side—but he still has a lot to offer a youthful squad. One of Lampard’s biggest issues last season was finding a suitable partner for Kurt Zouma. He had three other talented centerbacks at his disposal in Andreas Christensen, Antonio Rudiger and Fikayo Tomori, but for whatever reason, nothing seemed to work. Silva alleviates that headache this season.
The former AC Milan, Brazil and PSG captain also brings with him leadership qualities that Chelsea lacks in certain areas. This was put on full display after his mistake against West Brom, which Lampard praised his response to. Silva’s seen and experienced just about everything one professional can—most recently a Champions League final—so bringing him in is certainly justified.
At 36 years old, Silva doesn’t represent the long-term solution to the Blues’ defensive struggles, but he gives Lampard and his staff something money cannot buy: time. Chelsea has let more than a handful of talented players slip through the cracks in recent years, it was not about to release a good, young centerback unless the coaches were absolutely certain they wouldn’t live up to their potential. Signing Silva—especially for free—gives all parties another season to evaluate the options. The concerns of age and stamina are legitimate, but for all intents and purposes, this is a solid deal for the west Londoners.