Chelsea defender Thiago Silva has reportedly remained as a transfer target for Fluminense.
Despite his veteran status, Silva has proven to be a revelation during his time at Stamford Bridge, remaining as a key figure in the centre of defence.
In total, the 39-year-old has made 126 appearances in all competitions, helping Chelsea to a Champions League and Club World Cup along the way, yet his most impressive feat may be retaining his spot in the current starting lineup.
The Brazil international has been an ever-present in the Premier League since Mauricio Pochettino's arrival and appears to be regarded as the first-choice pick in his chosen position.
Nevertheless, Silva has less than a year remaining on his current contract and it remains unclear what decision he or Chelsea will make regarding his future.
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Silva has already acknowledged himself that he will take his time to assess his options, while a recent report indicated that Blues officials may opt against renewing his contract.
The player's high wages were suggested as a reason for that potential decision, yet it may prove irrelevant should Silva wish to take on a different challenge.
According to Fichajes, Fluminense are very much still interested in acquiring the services of one of their most notable former players.
As well as spending a period of time in the Fluminense youth ranks, Silva also made 143 appearances for the seniors between 2006 and 2008 before making the switch to AC Milan.
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A return to Fluminense has been suggested for some time with Silva known to be open to the idea of a third stint at the Maracana before he hangs up his boots.
However, the report indicates that Tricolor may attempt to negotiate a deal with Chelsea at the midway point of the campaign, albeit somewhat unrealistic if Silva remains in the starting lineup.
Chelsea are already without Wesley Fofana for much of the season and Pochettino will not want to find himself further restricted in such a key area.
Fluminense currently finds themselves in ninth place in the Brasileiro standings, just two points adrift of sixth which would earn them a spot in the Copa Libertadores qualifiers.
Darren Plant
