Chelsea confirm signing of Thiago Silva from PSG

Paris Saint-Germain's Brazilian forwar Neymar Jr (R) and Paris Saint-Germain's Brazilian defender Thiago Silva (L) celebrate with the trophy at the end of the French Cup final football match between Les Herbiers and Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), on May 8, 2018 at the Stade de France in Saint-Denis, outside Paris. / AFP PHOTO

Thiago Silva has joined Chelsea on a free transfer after his eight-year spell with Paris Saint-Germain came to an end.

The Brazilian defender was a free agent after his contract with the French giants expired and has penned a one-year contract with the option of a further 12 months.

Silva made 315 appearances for PSG, helping them win seven Ligue 1 titles during his stint in the French capital, as well as 11 other trophies.

He was unable to leave the club as a Champions League winner, playing his last game for the club in Sunday's final defeat to Bayern Munich.

Silva said: "I am so happy to be joining Chelsea. I am delighted to be a part of Frank Lampard’s exciting squad for next season and I’m here to challenge for honours."

Chelsea director Marina Granovskaia added: "We are delighted to be able to add a player of Thiago Silva’s proven world-class credentials to our squad.

"Having performed at the highest level for many years, we have no doubt his experience and quality will complement the many exciting talents we already have here.

"Thiago will be an excellent fit and we hope he can add some new trophies to his impressive list of honours."

Silva paid a heartfelt tribute to PSG this week after confirming his departure.

"Today a cycle ends," wrote the 35-year-old on Instagram.

"After eight years with the @psg team, I would like to thank my teammates, the whole technical team and management, the fans, my family, God and friends, for all these happy moments we experienced in the City of Light.

"Here with @bellesilva, we have experienced unforgettable moments, our children have grown, we have become French citizens, and we will forever carry these years and France in our hearts."

In response to Silva's post, former Chelsea and England captain John Terry dropped a big hint that the defender is on his way to Stamford Bridge, responding with a blue heart and an eyes emoji.