Chelsea have perfect blueprint to sign next Thiago Silva and complete second summer transfer

Thiago Silva was an inspired piece of business by Chelsea Football Club. The veteran defender may have been 35 years old when Chelsea swooped to sign him on a free transfer from Paris Saint-Germain, but he was just the experienced signing the club needed at the back.

The Brazilian only signed a one-year deal in 2020, but would go on to sign extensions keeping him at Stamford Bridge until this summer, when he finally waved goodbye the the Blues at the age of 39.

In his four years in west London, Silva made 113 Premier League appearances, scoring eight goals - an average of 28.25 games per season - not bad for a veteran defender.

He was a mainstay of the team under five different managers, proving his professionalism and star quality. Chelsea will miss his influence around the club, but could they make a move to sign their next Thiago Silva in the summer transfer window?

Mats Hummels has confirmed that he will leave Borussia Dortmund this summer on a free transfer, bringing to an end a 13-year association with the club over two separate spells.

In a message to the Dortmund fans, Hummels said: "Dear fans, my time in black and yellow is now coming to an end after more than 13 years. It has been a huge honour and pleasure for me to have played for BVB for so long and to have been part of the journey from 13th place in January 2008.

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"The countless great coaches and fantastic players I have had the honour of meeting here. I'm keeping my fingers crossed that you all meet up again at Borsigplatz as soon as possible to celebrate. I will miss you."

Hummels is 35 years old, like Silva was when he joined Chelsea. And he is also available on a free transfer, just like Silva was. He has never played in the Premier League, but may still feel like he has more to give and would prove an excellent addition to the Blues team, adding experience to a young Chelsea squad.

Chelsea have already signed Tosin Adarabioyo this summer and could bring in Hummels to further strengthen the backline, particularly if Trevoh Chalobah is to leave as well.