Thiago Silva was hailed as “one of the greatest ever” by PSG president as Chelsea move looms

Thiago Silva has been hailed as one of the greatest players in Paris Saint-Germain history by the club president as he prepares to complete a transfer to Chelsea.

The Brazilian defender, who will turn 36 next month, will strengthen Frank Lampard’s back line after eight years of success at PSG.

He arrived from AC Milan alongside Zlatan Ibrahimovic in 2012, playing more than 300 times for the club, winning countless domestic titles and reaching this year’s Champions League final.

Silva appeared on Wednesday to confirm his free transfer, with a social media post extolling the “ unforgettable moments, inexplicable things and incomparable people ” he had experienced in his time at the club.

Now, PSG has released its own tribute video, with President Nasser Al-Khelaifi adding his message of thanks.

He said: “Thiago, thank you for these eight memorable years, full of lasting memories and for your involvement, your devotion and your spirit. You will forever be one of the greatest players in history and your legendary status here at PSG will last forever.

“I wish you and your family the best for future challenges. You will always be part of the family and club history, a big thank you captain! “

Silva is set to provide experience to a much-changed Chelsea side next season, with Ben Chilwell completing his £ 50m ($ 66m) transfer from Leicester on Wednesday and Malang Sarr following from Nice on a free transfer. within 24 hours. Timo Werner and Hakim Ziyech had already arrived earlier at the window, with higher expenses expected.

Chelsea continue to hope to complete a deal for Bayer Leverkusen prodigy Kai Havertz, while there have also been rumors of a renewed push for West Ham midfielder Declan Rice.

Silva was backed to shine in the Premier League by Brazilian compatriot Rivaldo, who said Betfair: “At 35, Thiago Silva will sign for two seasons with Chelsea and I am confident he will do a great job there, as he is a great central defender with excellent positioning and extensive experience in world football.

“I think he still has a lot to offer. I would help him produce good football in the Premier League and I should be a dominant voice in Frank Lampard’s otherwise young team.”