At this stage 12 months ago, it was looking like Chelsea were heading for crisis in the centre of defence. Thiago Silva, Andreas Christensen and Antonio Rudiger were all nearing the final six months of their contract and it was beginning to look like none would extend their deals.
Eventually Christensen and Rudiger departed for free and Todd Boehly and co had a hefty task upon their arrival following the takeover to find replacements. Kalidou Koulibaly, Wesley Fofana and Marc Cucurella were signed, and each have played in Chelsea's back three this season. None have had the perfect start as Chelsea struggled, but their quality came at a cost with the Blues parting with a £165million.
Silva meanwhile, has played more minutes in the Premier League than any other Chelsea player this term, has turned 38 and once again is coming to the final six months of his contract. The Brazilian, currently at the World Cup, hinted that talks of a deal could begin before or after the tournament but conceded he hoped to have his future resolved to be able to plan for what is next.
