Chelsea confirmed Friday last week the signing of former Paris Saint-Germain captain Thiago Silva as new reports indicated the Brazilian could have stayed with the French side for at least another season. PSG tried to extend Thiago's contract at the 11th hour but the defender had already sealed a deal with Stamford Bridge.
That was the revelation from Paulo Tonietto, Silva's agent, who added the Parisians' last-minute efforts to keep his client from leaving only highlighted the side's indecision on the matter. Prior to the extension offer, Tonietto said Silva was given the notice he will be allowed to leave at the end of his contract.
The message came from PSG sporting director Leonardo, who informed Silva of the decision two months ahead of the star's contract expiration. The news convinced Silva that his playing days at Parc des Princes are up so when the opportunity to play for Chelsea came up, the Brazilian made the switch.
Then Leonardo tried to talk Silva out the decision to transfer to a Premier League side, which the player, of course, rejected.
"Thiago had already reached an agreement with Chelsea, there was no turning back. When you make such a proposal, you have to be convinced," Goal reported Tonietto as saying.
The agent said PSG boss Thomas Tuchel had indicated he wanted Silva to remain on the roster but the last say on the matter rested on Leonardo. Tonietto added that PSG's wavering stance on Silva's status was confusing, thus prompting the Brazilian to make a go on the transfer from Italy to England.
Silva announced his decision shortly after his side's losing Champions League final match against Bayern Munich and days went by without a word from the French side if they'd be making a counter-offer to the reported interest by Chelsea.
Following the announcement by the Blues of Silva's acquisition, the Brazilian defender said his new journey is intended for more title wins in the upcoming campaigns. The 35-year-old signed a one-year deal but Chelsea will have the option to extend for another 12 months if Silva will perform to expectations.
The center back is unlikely to disappoint though as his records boast of 30 silverwares and sterling performances appearing for PSG, AC Milan, and Brazil, according to Sports Illustrated. Silva said the new challenge ahead excites him.
"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 honors," the new Chelsea signing was reported as saying.
His enthusiasm is not without basis as Lampard's side has been building up in recent weeks. Silva will be joining up with a squad that will be headlined by Timo Werner, Hakim Ziyech, Ben Chilwell, and possibly Kai Havertz signing up soon.
