Exclusive: Fabrizio Romano on Chelsea star’s future and potential transfer replacement

Fabrizio Romano has an update on the latest Chelsea transfer news in his exclusive column for the Daily Briefing today, featuring a look at Thiago Silva’s future and who could replace him if he does leave.

The Blues have Silva nearing the end of his contract, with the veteran Brazilian defender set to be a free agent at the end of this season, with Romano acknowledging that there’s already some speculation that he could be a target for Fluminense.

Still, Romano insists there’s not been a decision made on Silva’s future yet, with the player ultimately set to have the final say on what happens to him next.

Meanwhile, Romano seems unconvinced by the transfer rumours involving Inter Milan defender Alessandro Bastoni being a target for Chelsea.

The Italy international is a top player and could be ideal to replace Silva at Stamford Bridge, though Romano has pointed out that he only recently signed a new deal with his current club, so this doesn’t look a particularly likely story.

“One player with an uncertain future is Thiago Silva – we know he’s heading towards the end of his contract, currently making him a free agent in summer 2024, and there are some reports that he could move back to Brazil with Fluminense at the end of this season,” Romano wrote.

“Still, my understanding is that Silva has not decided anything at this stage and no decision will be made now. It will be up to the player, and he will decide in 2024. In my opinion Thiago is still a fantastic defender but for him and Chelsea to continue together they need to be 100% convinced on both player and club side.

“If Silva were to leave Chelsea, could they sign a replacement? There’s nothing concrete on that for now as Silva’s future hasn’t been decided anyway, so I’d say