Chelsea confirm new Thiago Silva contract

Chelsea have announced that defender Thiago Silva has signed a new contract with the club.

Silva's previous deal was set to expire at the end of the current season, but he has put pen to paper on a new one-year extension.

The Brazil international, who joined the Blues in August 2020, will now remain at Stamford Bridge until June 2024.

Commenting on his new deal, Silva told the Chelsea official website: "I am honestly so happy to continue my career with the Blues.

"When I signed my first contract here, it was to just do one year. Now it is already the fourth! I could not have imagined that, but really it is a very special moment for me to sign and stay at Chelsea."

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Since arriving on a free transfer from Paris Saint-Germain less than three years ago, Silva has gone on to make 106 appearances for Chelsea, chipping in with five goals and five assists.

The veteran defender has established himself as a leader in the dressing room, and agreeing an extension has "delighted" chairman Todd Boehly and co-controlling owner Behdad Eghbali.

"We are delighted that Thiago has decided to continue with Chelsea," Boehly and Eghbali said.

"He is a world-class talent, as he is proven over many years for club and country, and his experience, quality and leadership skills are vital to our vision going forward.

"We are thrilled he has extended his contract with us and we look forward to more success with him ahead!"

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Silva has enjoyed success during his time with the Blues, winning the Champions League, the FIFA Club World Cup and the UEFA Super Cup.

Despite being in the twilight years of his career, he continues to be a regular feature in the Chelsea team.

The centre-back has started 18 of Chelsea's 21 Premier League games this season, while he was in the lineup for four of the club's six Champions League group matches.

Although Chelsea have struggled domestically this season, Silva will be dreaming of adding another Champions League winners' medal to his collection of honours.

The Blues begin the knockout rounds of the competition on Tuesday when they travel to Germany to face Borussia Dortmund in the first leg of their last-16 tie.